The African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) has announced the 13th edition of its Continental Essay Competition, inviting young Africans to share their ideas on how harmonised standards can reduce trade barriers and strengthen fair trade across the continent and beyond.
This annual competition encourages students to think critically about Africa’s economic future, sustainable development, and the role of standards in shaping fair, inclusive markets. By engaging Africa’s youth, ARSO aims to inspire solutions that drive regional integration and make the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) more effective.
Theme
The theme for the 2025/2026 edition is “The Role of Harmonised Standards in Reducing Technical Barriers to Trade and in Promoting Fair and Just Trade within the Intra-African and Global Trade.”
This theme challenges participants to explore how harmonised standards can improve product quality, enhance competitiveness, and build trust in African-made goods both within and outside the continent.
Why It Matters
For Africa’s young people, this competition is more than an essay challenge — it’s an opportunity to contribute to shaping the future of trade and development on the continent. Harmonised standards are essential to breaking down technical barriers that often prevent African businesses from reaching wider markets. By participating, students add their voices to an important conversation about inclusive growth, sustainable trade, and economic transformation across Africa.
Eligibility Criteria
The competition is open to
- Citizens of all African countries
- Applicants below 35 years of age
Students enrolled in a university, polytechnic, or college recognised by the local commission for university education or an equivalent body in their country
Essay Guidelines
Participants are required to
- Submit essays between 1,000 and 1,200 words
- Use Century Gothic, size 12, and double spacing
- Write in English or French
Include a brief 50-word author bio with their name, course, year of study, institution, town, and country - Provide contact details (postal address, physical address, phone number, and email) on the first page of the essay along with the title and author information
- Attach a copy of their identity card or passport and a completed registration form (ARSO/CACO/EC/Form 1/2025)
Awards and Benefits
The competition offers prizes at both national and continental levels to recognise outstanding essays.
Continental Level Prizes
First Prize: $1,000
Second Prize: $800
Third Prize: $500
National Level Prizes
First Prize: ₦250,000
Second Prize: ₦200,000
Third Prize: ₦150,000
Beyond the cash rewards, winners gain continental visibility and the chance to influence conversations around Africa’s trade policies and standards.
How to Apply
Interested students should submit their essays and supporting documents as outlined in the competition requirements. The deadline and submission link are available on ARSO’s official website.
Apply Here