Application Deadline: April 23, 2027
LOCATION: Kenya
The Annual ARSO Essay Competition is a prestigious platform dedicated to fostering creativity, innovation, and critical thinking among the youth across Africa. Each year, they invite students to explore pressing topics, share their perspectives, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on sustainable development and standards in Africa. Join in celebrating the power of words and ideas in shaping a brighter future for our continent.
ELIGIBILITY:
14th Continental Essay Competition for the year 2026/2027 Theme—”Advancing Intra-African Trade through Conformity Assessment and Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs)—Unlocking the Full Potential of the Cotton-to-Clothing Value Chain under the AfCFTA“
University and College Students under the age of 35 years eligible to participate
Enrolled in an accredited tertiary institution in an African Union Member State at the time of submission.
Aged 35 years or below as at the essay submission deadline
Open to students of all disciplines
May submit only one essay for consideration; group or co-authored submissions are not eligible.
Comply with Copyright Rules and AI Ethical Use Practice listed herein
Essay Guidelines
Length: 1,000 – 1,200 words, excluding references, cover page, and appendices.
Language: English or French
Essays must be original, unpublished works. Plagiarized or substantially AI-generated submissions will be disqualified upon detection; sources must be properly referenced using a consistent citation style (e.g., APA).
Submitted as a Word (.docx) document, size 12 font, 1.5-line spacing, with a separate cover page bearing the student’s name, institution, country, and contact details. The essay body itself should not bear the author’s name or institution to support blind judging.
Essays must be submitted through the National Coordinator in the student’s country of study; direct submissions to the ARSO Secretariat will be referred to the relevant National Coordinator.
Kindly attach a copy of the Identity Card or Passport and a completely filled Registration Form (ARSO/CACO/EC/Form 1/2026).
Download the Concept Note – Download Here English | Download Here French
Download the Registration Form – Download Here English | Download Here French
BENEFIT:
Prizes and Recognition
1st Prize: $1000 cash award, certificate of excellence, and public recognition at the ARSO Awards Ceremony.
2nd Prize: $800 Cash award and certificate of excellence.
3rd Prize: $500 Cash award and certificate of excellence.
