Written by Applications are now open for the Brain Builders Development Youth Initiative (BBDYI) National Essay Competition 2026, a nationwide opportunity for Nigerian tertiary students to explore the future of artificial intelligence and its impact on society. The competition is organised by Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative, a youth-led nonprofit advancing AI literacy, digital rights and responsible technology use across Nigeria and Africa.
This year’s competition invites students to contribute thoughtful, well-reasoned perspectives on how artificial intelligence can serve the public good while balancing innovation, human welfare and governance.
Essay Topic
Artificial Intelligence for Public Good: Balancing Innovation, Human Welfare, and Responsible Governance
Why This Matters
Artificial intelligence is rapidly shaping key sectors including education, healthcare, agriculture and governance. As Nigeria continues to adopt emerging technologies, there is a growing need for young people to actively engage in conversations around ethical use, policy direction and inclusive access.
This competition provides a platform for students to critically examine how AI can be developed and deployed responsibly within the Nigerian context, while ensuring that innovation benefits all segments of society.
Eligibility Requirements
- Applicants must be current students of recognised Nigerian tertiary institutions, including universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, colleges of technology, monotechnics and schools of nursing.
- Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old and must possess a valid student ID.
- Submissions must be original and previously unpublished. Applicants must also agree to grant BBDYI the right to publish or reference their essays with proper attribution in its publications and advocacy materials.
- Participants may use AI tools for research support, but the argument, analysis and writing must be clearly original.
- Essays that appear fully AI-generated without meaningful personal input will be disqualified.
- Applicants are encouraged to explore specific sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, governance or the creative industry, and develop clear, evidence-based arguments on responsible AI use in those areas.
Prizes and Recognition
- Winners of the competition will receive cash prizes and national recognition.
- The first-place winner will receive ₦400,000, while the second-place winner will receive ₦300,000.
- Winning essays will be published and featured in BBDYI’s advocacy materials and learning resources, giving participants visibility and credibility within the tech and policy space.
Application Deadline: April 15, 2026 at 10:00 AM (WAT). Late submissions will not be considered.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should complete the application form and upload their essay through the official link:
https://forms.gle/TF4FXYTympVnH87M7