Africa Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) 13th Continental Essay Competition is inviting African students to share their ideas on how harmonised standards can promote fair, inclusive, and sustainable trade across the continent.
The annual competition provides a platform for young Africans to contribute to discussions on standardisation, intra-African trade, and sustainable development. This year’s theme explores how harmonised standards can reduce technical barriers to trade and strengthen fair participation in both regional and global markets.
Theme
“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.”
Key Highlights
Organiser: African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO)
Competition Year: 2025/2026
Theme: Harmonised standards and fair trade in Africa and globally
Eligibility: African citizens under 35 studying in recognised higher institutions
Essay Length: 1,000–1,200 words
Submission Languages: English or French
Deadline for National Submissions: April 17, 2026
Eligibility Criteria
Must be a citizen of any African country.
Must be below 35 years old.
Must be currently enrolled in a recognised university, polytechnic, or college within Africa.
Essays must be original, relevant to the theme, and within the required word count.
Essay Requirements
Word Count: 1,000–1,200 words.
Format: Double-spaced, Century Gothic font, size 12.
Language: English or French.
Include a short bio (maximum 50 words) with your name, course, year of study, and institution details.
Provide full contact details (email, phone, and postal address) on the first page.
Attach a copy of your national ID or passport and the completed Registration Form (ARSO/CACO/EC/Form 1/2025).
Prizes and Benefits
Continental Level
1st Prize: $1,000, Return Air Ticket, Accommodation, and Recognition at the ARSO General Assembly in Uganda (June/July 2026)
2nd Prize: $800, Recognition and Essay Publication on ARSO Website
3rd Prize: $500, Recognition and Essay Publication on ARSO Website
A minimum of 25 participants must register and be evaluated by each country’s National Standards Body (NSB).
Each NSB will forward the top five essays to ARSO for continental evaluation.
Country reports and top entries must be submitted by Friday, April 17, 2026, via [arso@arso-oran.org].
How to Apply
1. Write your essay based on the official theme following the specified format.
2. Attach your national ID or passport and the completed registration form.
3. Submit your essay through your country’s National Standards Body (NSB) for review.
4. Top essays will be selected for the continental competition.
