ARSO Annual Essay Competition 2025

Published: 17 Oct 2025

African Organisation for Standardisation welcome you to the 13th Continental Essay Competition. 

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“

 

ARSO Annual Essay Competition

Application Deadline	February 28, 2026
Value	$35,010
Type	Contest
Sponsor	African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO)

ARSO Annual Essay Competition Benefits

The prize is in 2 Group: Continental Level and National Level 

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

Requirements for ARSO Annual Essay Competition

• Open to Citizens of all African Countries
• Applicants Only below the age of 35 years living in Africa and studying in a university, polytechnic, college recognised by the local commission for university education or equivalent body in their countries

Selection Process

Basic Essay Requirements 

• Length of essays : Essays should be between 1000 and 1200 words
• Presentation: Essays should be double spaced and presented inCentury 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
• Contacts 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

What are the Organisers looking for

Introduction 

Looking for an introduction that goes beyond simply stating the topic; including clear, concise, and compelling opening statement and demonstrate a deep understanding of the theme's significance

Problems Towards the Theme: A Detailed and Evidence-Based Analysis

Comprehensive grasp of the challenges. We are looking for a grounded analysis, supported by data and specific examples, not just general statements; can you identify the root causes of the problem and understand its multifaceted nature

Solutions and Policy Framework: A Strategic and Action-Oriented Proposal

We would like to read a clear path forward; outlining concrete, actionable solutions and demonstrate an understanding ofthe existing institutionalframework.

Conclusion: A Forward-Looking and Impact-Driven Summary

Provide a precise, powerful and inspiring final personal statement, reinforcing the importance of the theme and its potential for transformational change.

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Application Deadline

February 28, 2026

How to Apply

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