The University of Johannesburg (UJ) Prize for South African Writing is now accepting submissions. It is open to books published in 2024 by South African Writers.
The UJ Prize, established in 2006, has always accepted entries from South African writers regardless of their affiliation with the University of Johannesburg. The prize is not limited to a specific genre. Its goal is to be as inclusive as possible, giving opportunities to a wide variety of books. Submissions will be accepted as long as they are distinctive and worthy of literary merit.
Submission Guidelines
- The UJ prize is only open to South African writers who have resided in South Africa for at least six months while writing their book.
- Only books published between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024 will be considered.
- The deadline for submissions is February 28, 2025.
- The shortlist will be unveiled on or before August 31, 2025.
Submission Process
- Publishers are required to submit eight copies of each book they want to enter for the award, alongside the UJ prize form.
- The form must be signed by the author and publisher and enclosed in the same package as the submitted books.
- Publishers who wish to submit to the UJ prize should send their entries to this address by courier:
Ms Dikeledi Seranyane
University of Johannesburg
B-Ring 713
English Department
Kingsway Road
Auckland Park
Johannesburg
Unacceptable Entries
- The UJ prize will not accept unpublished manuscripts or self-published books.
- Books translated into English by anyone other than the author will not be accepted.
- Books that aren’t written by South African authors will not be considered.
- Entries submitted by South Africans who aren’t residents of the country will be ignored.
The UJ prize presents amazing opportunities for writers and publishers alike. The winners get amazing cash rewards and national recognition. Creatives are encouraged to submit and abide by the submission guidelines for the best results. Good luck!
Oreoluwa Odusote
Writer, poet, and dreamer.
