With the help of Samsung mentors and educators; this STEM-based (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) competition challenges learners to identify real issues in their communities and develop practical, technology-driven solutions that create meaningful social impact. Samsung has taken the time to speak to four (4) educators from the Top 20 schools in this year’s SFT Competition.

These conversations sought to evaluate what impact this competition is making in the lives of both the learners and the educators; as well as the broader community, more specifically the schools they are representing. When asked, this is what these educators had to say:

Tyron Greyling is an educator representing Cape Recife High School – a special needs school in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. He taught CAT (Computer Applications Technology) and Digital Technology at Cape Recife before moving to a new school recently. However, he’s still working closely with his team back at Cape Recife with learners that feel like even making it to the Top 20 is already a win for them.

According to Greyling, he took the initiative to apply for the SFT programme online early in the year – putting his school and its learners forward for the competition. He expressed the importance of such competitions because this platform has given his learners hands-on exposure to technology and problem solving skills that can shape their future studies and career paths. It has also put the school in the map alongside other mainstream schools – allowing the learners to be as innovative as possible.

Greyling added: “The competition’s impact has been felt across the whole school. Everyone is genuinely excited, it’s sparked real interest among our younger learners, who are already looking forward to getting involved in the future. Other educators in our school have also expressed how incredibly proud they are of what the team has managed to achieve so far; and even our School Governing Body (“SGB”) has been asking for regular updates as well.”

Samsung also spoke to Nkosiyomuzi Joseph Zimu, an educator from Klerksdorp Secondary School located in an area called Manzilpark in the North West province. Zimu mentioned that when he heard about the competition, he grabbed it with both hands because he knew that the learners he teaches who come from economically disadvantaged families – needed this opportunity more than ever.

He stated that this competition has opened the eyes of his entire institution and has made them realise just how smart their learners are. In addition, they now understand that with proper guidance – their learners could achieve much more. Zimu also touched on how this SFT Competition has helped to improve the relationship between the learners and teachers.

This educator is convinced that competitions like these are able to unite communities, and he clarified by saying: “We never thought we would be forced to collect information from those outside our school, but we knew that in order to complete the project; our success depended on the knowledge of others within our community.”

Zimu also acknowledged how beneficial this competition has been to their educators as well, and said: “We have now learnt to work as a team; this SFT Competition has helped us appreciate the fact that this is not about one teacher but about the school as a whole. We now know that collectively we can build a better community.”

Another educator, Thabang Jethro Leshaba who has been representing Florapark Comprehensive High School that’s located in Polokwane. Leshaba teaches Physical Science in Grades 11 and 12; and is also the main organiser of the school’s Science Projects Committee. Part of his responsibilities include ensuring that his learners participate in competitions that focus on STEM subjects. He is another educator who’s confident about his school’s chances of winning this year’s competition.

Leshaba said that he became aware of the SFT Competition a day before the closing date. But in spite of the short notice, was able to immediately identify learners whom he believed had the academic ability, commitment and potential to participate well in the competition. He said: “Since our project made it into the Top 20, the school has announced it to the entire community and the project has also been displayed throughout my classroom. A lot of learners, particularly those taking Mathematics and Science have become intrigued by the idea.”

He also added that they have seen a growing interest in the project from learners and educators who participate in sport at their school. “Through our participation in this SFT Competition, he expanded: “our school learners have started to realise that what they learn in STEM subjects can be applied in real-life challenges as well as different fields, including sport. And, this competition has also helped us reinforce an important message – that science is everywhere and sport itself is made possible in many ways by science and technology.”

The fourth and last educator that Samsung spoke to is: Tendayi Gilbert Jobi from Kgomotso High School in the Northern Cape. This educator teaches both Natural and Physical Sciences. Jobi said when he came across information on the Samsung SFT Competition, he saw it as a great opportunity for his Grade 10 learners to participate in. He then guided them in the process of identifying a real community problem related to environmental sustainability through technology.

Jobi explained further and said that this competition has transformed their school in many positive ways. It has inspired both learners and teachers to embrace innovation, creativity and problem-solving. According to Jobi, this competition has also shifted learning beyond the classroom by encouraging their learners to apply scientific and technological knowledge to solve real-life community challenges. And furthermore, he is convinced that this competition has also raised the profile of their school. He said: “being selected among the Top 20 schools in the country has brought our school the much-needed recognition”.

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – September 2026 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced that it is showcasing two new Bespoke AI Washer models during Innovation For All (IFA) 2026¹: a 10 kg model designed to deliver A-70% energy efficiency² and a 13kg large-capacity model engineered to fit within a standard 600mm depth.

As the official main sponsor of the IFA Creator Hub, Samsung is showcasing its latest innovations at Humboldt Carré in Berlin, Germany from 02 – 06 Sept. The new Bespoke AI Washers is among the products on display, highlighting Samsung’s latest advances in technology. The two new models combine improved energy efficiency and greater capacity with space-efficient design and AI-powered fabric care to help consumers manage laundry more efficiently and conveniently.

“At Samsung, we are continually challenging the traditional trade-offs between energy efficiency, capacity and convenience,” said VP and Head of the Customer Experience Team of the Digital Appliances (DA) Business at Samsung Electronics. “During IFA 2026, we’re demonstrating how innovation can help consumers reduce energy consumption, handle larger loads and enjoy a more intelligent and convenient laundry experience.”

Larger 10 kg Bespoke AI Washer Brings New Efficiency Milestone

The Bespoke AI Washer with A-70% energy efficiency marks a new step forward for Samsung, following the A-55% Bespoke AI Washer introduced at IFA 2024 and the A-65% model showcased at IFA 2025. The new washer will be designed to consume up to 70% less energy than the minimum energy efficiency requirement for a Class A rating in Europe, while increasing washing capacity from 9kg³ to 10kg.

By improving capacity and energy efficiency simultaneously, the new model builds on the company’s continued research into overcoming the traditional compromise between washing larger loads and reducing energy consumption. Samsung has achieved these gains through engineering improvements across key areas, including motor efficiency, thermal management and wash-cycle design. Together, these technologies reduce electricity consumption while maintaining effective cleaning performance and everyday usability.

13kg Bespoke AI Washer Offers Increased Capacity with Standard-Depth Footprint

Samsung will also showcase the new Bespoke AI Washer with large capacity, which brings a 13kg washing capacity to a standard design depth of 600mm. Using SpaceMax technology, which creates more space inside to enhance the mechanical design and incorporate a larger drum without increasing the external dimensions, the washer increases internal volume while maintaining a compact 24-inch form factor.

This space-efficient design allows users to wash larger loads, bedding and bulkier items — while helping the appliance fit within common European kitchen, utility-room and furniture configurations. The washer also incorporates Samsung’s mono-body design, creating a unified form designed to blend naturally into a wide range of interiors.

A slim front frame reinforces its streamlined silhouette, while refined colours, materials and finishes contribute to a clean, understated appearance. At the centre of the interface is a large touch display visually integrated with the detergent compartment. From this display, users can intuitively access cycle controls, connected features and personalised laundry services through SmartThings.⁴

Auto Open Door Helps Keep the Washer Interior Fresh

For added convenience, both washers feature Auto Open Door⁵. Once a wash cycle is complete, the washer door opens gradually to help release residual moisture from inside the drum. By automatically ventilating the interior after a cycle, Auto Open Door helps keep the washer interior fresh between cycles.

Together, the new A-70% and 13kg Bespoke AI Washers reflect Samsung’s continued effort to challenge traditional laundry trade-offs. They deliver great capacity with lower energy consumption, making everyday laundry more intelligent and convenient.

*This article contains products and features currently in development. The plans, product claims, timelines, and specifications described are subject to change without notice. Their future availability is not guaranteed.

*Availability may vary per region, country or carrier.

1. The Bespoke AI Washer models shown at IFA 2026 are development-stage display models. Specifications are subject to change, and commercial availability to be determined. ︎
2. Based on Samsung internal testing.  The energy consumption of this Bespoke AI Washer [WF90*/24 (10kg)] achieves an EEI of 15.5 (15.3 kWh / 100 cycles), which is up to 70.2% more energy efficient compared to the minimum threshold for Class A (EEI 52 for 10kg models) under Regulation (EU) No 2019/2014. Final testing to be conducted prior to EPREL registration. Results may vary depending on the usage environment. Energy ratings tested with the Eco 40–60 program. ︎
3. Compared to the previous model WF90H09C4S with A-65% energy efficiency and 9kg washing capacity, ︎
4. Available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required ︎
5. Products and models equipped with the feature may vary by market. ︎