Unisa prepares to present the 2026 Marine and Ocean Photography Competition

The Marine and Ocean Photography Competition team from the College of Human Sciences (CHS) recently embarked on a site visit to various districts in KwaZulu-Natal.

The Marine and Ocean Photography Competition was launched in 2025 in Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape. CHS recognised the need for this project as part of its commitment to positively contributing to humanity through teaching, research, and community engagement.

This initiative aligns with Unisa's ten catalytic niche areas, one of which is Marine Studies. The Marine Research Plan of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation highlights that coastal oceanography in South Africa is still in its infancy. Boasting a 2 800 km coastline and significant commercial activity, including the country’s largest and busiest port, the Port of Durban, South Africa has enormous economic growth potential.

The project, headed by the Director of the School of Arts, Professor Siyasanga Tyali, includes Jimmy Mabina, Makwarela Mudau, Karabo Mafetša, Rachel Maboa, Katlego Pilane and Nnana Jege.

The visit included an engagement with Omesh Maharaj of the Ugu district, and Dr Musawenkosi Madondo of the Ilembe district. The purpose of the meeting was to introduce the project, discuss collaboration opportunities, clarify logistics and participation requirements, and assist in identifying underprivileged schools that can participate in the competition. Both Maharaj and Madondo thanked the team for the detailed presentation of the project. Maharaj said they are honoured to be selected for the project. “Not only will our learners walk away with prizes, but also with knowledge and skills that can expose them to other opportunities.”

From left, Spha Thusi, Durban Film Office, Musa Mbhele, Durban Film Office, Nosipho Hlophe, Durban Film Office, Buhle Xaba, Durban Film Office, Nnana Jege, CHS Communication and Marketing, Hlengiwe Ngwabe, Durban Film Office, Karabo Mafetsa, Dept of Linguistics and Modern Languages, Jimmy Mabina, CHS Strategic Projects, Makwarela Mudau, CHS Strategic Projects, and Rachel Maboa, Dept of Linguistics and Modern Languages

The team also had a productive meeting with the Durban Film Office, where they were warmly received by the Director of Films, Musa Mbhele, and his team. The meeting concluded positively, with stakeholders expressing interest in supporting the project and assisting with school participation and stakeholder engagement.

The competition will be held in Durban from 27 to 29 August 2026. The three-day competition will include a workshop, photography session and adjudication, followed by a prize-giving ceremony. Each learner will submit five photos, which will be carefully evaluated over two days by four adjudicators in the following five weighted categories: Life Beneath the Waves, Coastal Connection, Ocean in Motion, Marine Conservation in Action, and Hidden Treasures of the Shoreline.

The winners will earn the following prizes: First prize is R5 000 cash and a laptop, second prize is R3 500 and a tablet, and third prize is R2 500 and a tablet.

* By Nnana Martina Jege, Communications and Marketing Specialist, CHS