Applications open for Design Thinking Week

The Hasso Plattner School of Design Thinking Afrika (d-school Afrika) at the University of Cape Town (UCT) has opened applications for the Design Thinking Week programme – and it’s entirely free for all higher education students across South African universities.

The five-day, in-person programme is designed to equip the next generation with the skills and mindset to thrive in an uncertain world.

Taking place from 24 to 28 November, the programme is open free of charge to registered South African higher education students under the age of 35. Through immersive, hands-on learning, participants will gain essential capabilities, including critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration – competencies that are increasingly sought after in the future job market.

Human-centred approach

Working in multidisciplinary teams, students will apply a human-centred approach to tackle real-world challenges set by the d-school Afrika’s project partners. Guided by experienced facilitators, they will learn to generate ideas, test solutions, and develop the creative confidence to address complex problems with agility.

On successful completion of the full programme, participants will receive a certificate, providing formal recognition of the skills and experience gained.

Applications are open until 10 November 2025. With limited spaces available, early application is encouraged.

Apply.