(JUBA) – The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS) has opened the 13th ARSO Essay Competition for 2025/2026. The contest is for university and college students to write essays on African trade, standards, and the continent’s economic growth.
The theme is: “The Role of Harmonised Standards in Reducing Technical Barriers to Trade and Promoting Fair and Just Trade within Intra-African and Global Trade.” SSNBS said the competition allows students to share ideas and represent South Sudan at regional and continental levels.
An SSNBS official said, “This is a great chance for students to gain recognition and show how standards can improve trade and Africa’s economy.”
Prizes are offered at national and continental levels. The top prize is $1,000 (7,100,000 SSP) at continental level and $300 (2,130,000 SSP) nationally. Other prizes include:
| Position | Continental Prize (USD) | National Prize (USD) | Equivalent in SSP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | $1,000 | $300 | 7,100,000 SSP / 2,130,000 SSP |
| 2nd | $800 | $200 | 5,680,000 SSP / 1,420,000 SSP |
| 3rd | $500 | $100 | 3,550,000 SSP / 710,000 SSP |
The competition is open to African students under 35 years old who are enrolled in accredited universities or colleges. Essays should be 1,000–1,200 words, in English or French, Century Gothic font size 12, double-spaced. Students must include a registration form, ID or passport, and contact details. Essays with more than 20 percent AI content will be rejected.
SSNBS added, “This contest helps students understand how standards reduce trade barriers and support fair trade. It also connects education, policy, and trade, helping South Sudan take part fully in the African Continental Free Trade Area.”
Students can apply by emailing info@ssnbs.gov.ss or pal@ssnbs.gov.ss and visiting www.ssnbs.gov.ss for more information.
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