African Organisation for Standardisation 2027 ARSO Continental Essay Competition
About this contest
Welcome to the Annual ARSO Essay Competition, a prestigious platform dedicated to fostering creativity, innovation, and critical thinking among the youth across Africa. Each year, students are invited to explore pressing topics, share their perspectives, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on sustainable development and standards in Africa. Join us in celebrating the power of words and ideas in shaping a brighter future for our continent.
Application Deadline:
- 23 April 2027 (Deadline for National Standards Bodies to submit shortlisted entries to ARSO; individual student submission deadlines are set earlier by each country’s National Coordinator)
Tell Me About The Program:
The 14th ARSO Continental Essay Competition 2026/2027 is organized by the African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) to engage African youth in standardisation, quality infrastructure, and economic development. The competition challenges tertiary students to propose solutions for advancing intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
2026/2027 Essay 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”
Which Fields are Eligible:
All academic fields and disciplines across the humanities, social sciences, physical sciences, engineering, business, law, and technology.
Type:
Continental Academic Essay Competition / Cash Award & Recognition Program
Who can Apply:
- Citizenship & Residency: Citizens of any African country living and studying in Africa.
- Academic Status: Enrolled as an undergraduate or postgraduate student in an accredited tertiary institution (university, polytechnic, or college) in an African Union Member State.
- Age Limit: 35 years old or younger by the submission deadline.
- Submission Rule: Individual entries only; group or co-authored essays are strictly ineligible.
How are Applicants Selected:
- National Level Review: Each participating country’s National Standards Body (e.g., SON in Nigeria, KEBS in Kenya) reviews local submissions and selects the top five essays.
- Continental Level Review: The top five entries from each country are forwarded to the ARSO Secretariat for final evaluation by an international panel of experts based on relevance, analytical depth, structure, originality, and adherence to formatting rules.
Which Countries Are Eligible:
African Union Member States (open to eligible tertiary students across Africa).
Where will the Program be Taken:
Online submission via national coordinating bodies, with the 1st place continental winner invited to attend the 33rd ARSO General Assembly.
How Many Fellows:
Multiple national-level winners per country, plus top 3 continental winners.
What is the Benefit of the Program:
- Continental Level Cash Prizes ($2,300 Total Pool):
- 1st Place: $1,000 USD + Certificate of Excellence + Travel sponsorship to the 33rd ARSO General Assembly
- 2nd Place: $800 USD + Certificate of Excellence
- 3rd Place: $500 USD + Certificate of Excellence
- National Level Prizes: Administered separately by each participating National Standards Body (e.g., up to ₦250,000 for top entries in Nigeria).
How Long Will it Last:
Annual edition (Continental winners officially announced in July 2027).
How to Apply:
- Write an original essay of 1,000 to 1,200 words (excluding references, cover page, and author details) on the official theme.
- Format the document in 12-point Century Gothic font, double-spaced (or 1.5 line spacing) as a .docx file. Ensure source citations follow a consistent style (e.g., APA).
- Prepare a separate cover page detailing your full name, institution, academic course/year, town, country, and contact info (keep the main body anonymous for blind judging).
- Complete the official ARSO Registration Form (stamped and signed by your Head of Department) and attach a copy of your student ID card or passport.
- Submit the complete package directly to your country’s National Standards Body / ARSO National Coordinator before your local national closing date.
Download the Concept Note – Download Here English | Download Here French
Download the Registration Form – Download Here English | Download Here French
Visit the Application Webpage for Details