1. INTRODUCTION
Satellites have changed our perception of the Earth, helping us to realise that it is small, fragile, and unique in the immensity of space, and as such must be preserved. Satellites help us to learn more about our planet and to improve how we use its limited resources. They also revolutionise the way we travel and communicate.
The Star Awards aim to:
- Showcase innovative ideas on the application of satellite technology in Africa
- Create awareness of satellite technology and its applications among African students
- Stimulate interest in science and technology among young people in schools across Africa
2. TOPIC
Take yourself into the future as a scientist, tasked with designing a new-age satellite that will help improve the lives of Africans. Tell us what you would call your satellite and describe the different functions and roles that it would play in the Africa of the future.
3. ELIGIBILITY
It’s open to all students from secondary or combined schools in Africa where MultiChoice Africa maintains operations, and who are between the ages 14 and 19.
4. AWARD REQUIREMENTS
Entry forms can be obtained from any MultiChoice Resource Centre, the nearest MultiChoice office or copies can be downloaded from www.dstvstarawards.com.
Entries are accepted in English, French and Portuguese and will be judged on the basis of high-standard criteria of accuracy, creativity, originality and innovation. Only entries submitted on the official entry form will be eligible.
ESSAY REQUIREMENTS
- 1200 to 1400 words (excluding bibliography)
- Typed in Arial 12, with 1.5 spacing; or can be hand written, but clearly legible
- Pages should be numbered
- Only hard copy entries will be accepted
- Entries may include illustrations, graphics or diagrams
- References (all sources consulted during the preparation of the entry) should be included
POSTER REQUIREMENTS
Entries must be between A3 Size (420 X 297 mm) and A1 Size (594 X 841 mm). Only hard copy entries will be accepted
All poster entries must be accompanied by a typed or legible hand written summary containing the following headings:
- Title
- Summary of idea/concept
- References (all sources consulted during the preparation of the entry) should be included
5. PRIZES
Winning posters and essays from each country will compete for the overall prizes:
| Best overall essay: | A trip for two to Eutelsat in Paris and onwards to a rocket launch. |
| Best overall poster: | A trip for two to Eutelsat in Paris and a satellite construction facility. |
| Runner up overall poster: | A trip for two to MultiChoice and the South African National Space Agency at Hartbeesthoek. |
| Runner essay award: | A trip for two to MultiChoice and the South African National Space Agency at Hartbeesthoek. |
The schools attended by the four overall winners will also receive a DStv installation, including a dish, TV, decoder and free access to the DStv Education Bouquet.
6. THE CLOSING DATE
Entries must be submitted on or before close of business on 07 November 2016. NO LATE ENTRIES WILL BE CONSIDERED.
For more information about the judging criteria and competition rules, visit this link. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in February 2017.
