Written by About the Program:
The ARSO Continental Essay Competition is an annual initiative by the African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO), designed to spark critical thinking and dialogue among Africa’s youth on standardization and sustainable development. Now in its 13th edition for the 2025/2026 academic year, it builds on a decade-long legacy of inspiring essays that address real-world challenges.
Theme of the Essay Competition:
This year’s theme, “The Role of Harmonised Standards in Reducing Technical Barriers to Trade and Promoting Fair and Just Trade within Intra-African and Global Trade”, invites participants to explore how unified standards can dismantle trade hurdles, foster equitable intra-African commerce, and enhance Africa’s position in global markets. Held at the continental level, winners from national rounds compete for top honors, with past victors hailing from countries like Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Cameroon, and Uganda. It’s more than an essay contest—it’s a movement for youth-led innovation in African standardization, complete with resources like concept notes in English and French to guide your submission.
Benefits of the Program:
Continental Level:
- 1st winner: $1,000
- 2nd winner: $800
- 3rd winner: $500
National Level:
- 1st winner: N250,000
- 2nd Winner: N200,000
- 3rd winner: N150,000
The Continental Essay Competition is accessible yet selective, ensuring a diverse pool of fresh perspectives:
- Age Limit: Open to university and college students under the age of 35 years as of the submission deadline.
- Academic Status: Must be currently enrolled in a recognized higher education institution in Africa (undergraduate or postgraduate levels).
- Nationality/Residency: Participants should represent African countries, with national-level entries feeding into the continental stage.
- Theme Adherence: Essays must align with the 2025/2026 theme on harmonised standards and trade barriers, demonstrating originality, research, and relevance to African global trade dynamics.
No prior publication or experience required—it’s ideal for emerging voices in standardization education and youth trade advocacy. Check the full criteria in the downloadable concept note to confirm your fit.
Essay Submission Requirements:
- Length of essays: Essays should be between 1000 and 1200 words
- Presentation: Essays should be double-spaced and presented in Century Gothic, size 12
- Language of essays: Essays must be submitted in English or French
- Information on the author: Authors may use up to 50 words to describe themselves. Information should include their names, course and year of study, name, town and country in which their university is located. N/B: this will not be part of the 1000- 1200 words
- Contact of authors: Authors should provide us with their postal, physical, telephone, and email addresses on the first page of the essay, together with the title of the essay and information on the author.)
- Kindly attach a copy of the Identity Card or Passport and a completely filled Registration Form (ARSO/CACO/EC/Form 1/2025)
Application Deadline:
Applications for this competition are open for entries until the 28th of February, 2026. Early submissions are highly appreciated.
Application Process:
Interested and eligible applicants should apply for this program by accessing the application portal through the application link below:
⇔APPLY NOW
JUST GIVE THIS YOUR BEST SHOT.