(JUBA) – The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS) has launched the 13th African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) Essay Competition for 2025/2026. The competition invites higher education students across South Sudan to submit essays on the role of harmonised standards in reducing technical barriers to trade and promoting fair trade across Africa and globally.
The theme for this year 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.”
Ministerial and academic authorities in South Sudan have highlighted this competition as a key platform for students to contribute fresh ideas to Africa’s economic integration and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The initiative also allows participants to represent South Sudan at regional and continental levels.
The competition encourages participants to deepen their understanding of standards, propose innovative solutions for trade facilitation, and strengthen connections between academia, policy, and business. Essays are expected to inspire change and promote a culture of quality, safety, and standardisation in South Sudan and across Africa.
Eligibility is open to African citizens under the age of 35 who are enrolled in accredited universities or colleges. Submissions must be between 1,000 and 1,200 words, in English or French, formatted in Century Gothic, font size 12, double-spaced. Each submission must include a registration form, a copy of ID or passport, and contact details. Essays containing more than 20 percent AI-generated content will be disqualified.
Winners at the continental and national levels will receive cash prizes as follows:
| Position | Continental Prize (USD) | National Prize (USD) | Continental Prize (SSP) | National Prize (SSP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 1,000 | 300 | 7,100,000 | 2,130,000 |
| 2nd | 800 | 200 | 5,680,000 | 1,420,000 |
| 3rd | 500 | 100 | 3,550,000 | 710,000 |
The deadline for submissions is 30 January 2026. For more information and submission details, students can contact the SSNBS at info@ssnbs.gov.ss or pal@ssnbs.gov.ss, visit www.ssnbs.gov.ss or call +211 921 339 993.
The ARSO Essay Competition is a significant opportunity for South Sudanese youth to gain recognition, develop their understanding of trade and standards, and contribute to the country’s growing role in continental and global economic discussions.