Johannesburg – African researchers focused on solving real-world scientific and technical challenges are invited to participate in the 2025 edition of Vizov (Russian Issues) Future Technology Awards.
The award is directed against international competition designed to recognize the landscape of modern science and groundbreaking ideas and inventions that will change the lives of each individual.
The “discovery” category of awards, launched in 2024, is open to scientists around the world, including those based in universities, labs or research centres in Africa.
The Vyzov Award supports projects with the potential to shift the entire field of knowledge and create life-changing techniques.
It will be awarded in five categories: “Breakthrough,” “Engineering Solutions,” “Perspective,” and “Scientist of the Year.”
The international category “discovery” focuses on research that has had a major impact on science and technology on a global scale.
The award is supported by many institutions and companies, including Rosatom, one of the award's major partners.
“African researchers have important jobs in medicine, energy, climate and agriculture. Their voice should be part of a global scientific conversation,” said Ryan Collyer, CEO of Rosatom Central and Southern Africa.
“We look forward to more international collaboration and more awareness of the innovations happening outside the traditional center.”
The application will be open until May 21, 2025, and researchers can apply in one of three ways. Individually, via piano nominations, or via appointments by scientific organizations.
The prize money is 60 million rubles (approximately 740,000 US dollars).
The Vyzov Award is one of several initiatives focused on science supported by Russian organizations in collaboration with institutions around the world.
Among other things, there is Global Hackatom, an annual applied science competition in which student teams, including African student teams, address practical cases in the nuclear field.
In 2023, the contest was held in Rwanda where students from the University of Rwanda participated in developing nuclear-themed projects and presenting ideas to experts.
By including both early and senior researchers, these programs aim to encourage long-term involvement between science and innovation.
It also reflects the focus on global partnerships in addressing common challenges, from energy transition to technological independence.
For more information about the Vyzov Future Technologies Award, visit https://vyzovprize.com.
