South Africa’s top physical science and maths achievers selected
for the 2026
NSTF Brilliants Programme
While the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) celebrates 25 years of this programme, we are proud to announce this year’s group of 22 selected maths and science top performers studying in science-related courses.
The NSTF Brilliants Programme is a unique annual programme that selects and recognises students for their outstanding performance in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations in physical science and mathematics, and their choices of studies in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)-related courses.
At least one boy and one girl is selected from the public schools in each province.
This annual programme is unique to the NSTF, giving prestigious recognition on a national stage to students for their outstanding performance in the NSC examinations in physical science and maths every year.
Why the NSTF Brilliants Programme? Scientific solutions for South African problems: It is critical for the future of our country that enough good passes in matric physical science and maths are produced, and that some of these young people make a choice for studies and careers in STEM fields, including medicine.
The NSTF encourages students to complete their studies in STEM-related fields as far as they possibly can and find their way to one of the many interesting and fulfilling related careers.
South Africa (SA)’s ability to solve our problems and be competitive internationally in research and innovation depends on this.
So far, more than 442 top-performing students have been recognised, inspired and motivated, with a large number of these assisted with bursaries, over the past 25 years.
A further prize for the students is participation in a STEM-related educational tour every year.
A few students will be selected to participate at the London International Youth Science Forum (LIYSF) in London, United Kingdom (UK) from 19 July to 1 August 2026.
The NSTF partnership with LIYSF continues for a fourth year for selected students of the NSTF Brilliants Programme to attend.
This 14-day programme welcomes about 500 of the best young science students from over 90 countries. LIYSF 2026 will explore future developments in the sciences with lecture demonstrations, specialist seminars and debates led by a team of scientists and experts.
Attendance of a selected number of students will be dependent on sponsorship received.
PS: Their average mark in Grade 12 (NSC) mathematics and physical science is 95.7%