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Essay competition to amplify young voices

Essay competition to amplify young voices

In celebration of International Youth Day (#IYD) 2024, the National Youth Council of Namibia (NYC) will have an essay competition to inspire and mobilise young people to explore the role of digital technology in sustainable development.

The #IYD 2024 Essay Competition is open to Namibian youth aged 16 to 35. 

Participants are invited to craft original essays in English, ranging between 1 200 and 1 700 words, focusing on how digital technology can foster sustainable development. 

This initiative seeks to amplify the voices of young people, and encourage them to reflect on the transformative power of digital tools and innovations.

International Youth Day, observed annually on 12 August, highlights youth issues on the global stage and celebrates the potential of young people as catalysts for change. 

This year’s theme is “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development”. 

NYC chairperson Sharonice Busch said participants in the essay competition are required to submit original essays, which will be evaluated against the criteria outlined in the Concept Note. 

In each of the three categories, finalists will be selected and invited to present their perspectives/arguments in front of a panel of independent, invited judges. This is expected to take place towards the end of this month.

 “As we celebrate International Youth Day, we recognise the vital role of young people in harnessing digital technology for sustainable development. This essay competition provides an opportunity for youth to share their insights and contribute to the conversation on how we can overcome digital divides and use technology to build a more equitable and sustainable future,” she said.

Busch added that the competition in itself is not yetan annual endeavour. However, it is in commemoration of an annual celebration of young people’s potential.

“The top essays will be selected by a panel of judges and winners will receive prizes as well as recognition in a special ceremony. The competition not only aims to engage youth, but also to generate actionable ideas and solutions that can be implemented at local and national levels,” added the youth leader.

In each category, five finalists will be selected and invited to deliver a 15-minute presentation on a date to be announced.

Cash prizes of N$10 000, N$5 000 and N$2 500 will be awarded to the top three entrants, respectively, per category (topic), with the overall winner receiving
N$15 000.

“So, as the saying goes, ‘The more the merrier!’,” she said enthusiastically. 

She added: “We seek diverse perspectives and insights from Namibian youth across the country, and, thus have not set any limit on the number of entrants into the Essay Competition.”

Recent statistics reveal that three-quarters of individuals aged 15 to 24 were Internet users in 2022, reflecting a higher engagement, compared to other age groups. 

Despite this, notable disparities remain, particularly in low-income countries, and among young women who often face barriers to digital access and skills development. 

The essay competition aims to address these gaps by promoting digital inclusion, and exploring how technology can drive positive change.

-priscillamukokobi@gmail.com