Nigeria’s youth population represents over 60% of the total population, making them the nation’s most valuable resource. However, young Nigerians face significant challenges, including limited access to quality education, high unemployment, and inadequate entrepreneurial support. Without targeted policies, Nigeria risks losing its youth potential.
The Itet Gem Foundation Annual Essay Competition is an initiative designed to encourage intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and leadership among Nigerian secondary school students.
Each year, the competition provides a platform for students to express thoughtful ideas on important issues shaping society while gaining exposure to mentorship and developmental opportunities.
The 2026 edition invites students to reflect on one of the most transformative forces shaping the modern world today: Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Essay Topic
The Urgency of Now: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Nigerian Youth
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming industries, education systems, and economies across the world. From healthcare and agriculture to finance and education, AI technologies are influencing how societies work, learn, and innovate.
For young people, this technological revolution presents both remarkable opportunities and serious challenges.
AI has the potential to improve learning, unlock new career opportunities, increase productivity, and help solve complex societal problems. At the same time, concerns exist around job displacement, misinformation, ethical misuse, and unequal access to technology.
Nigeria has one of the youngest populations in the world. The choices made today regarding education, technology adoption, and digital skills will determine whether Nigerian youth become leaders in the AI era or are left behind by it.
This essay competition invites students to examine these issues thoughtfully and propose practical ideas for how Nigeria can prepare its youth for the opportunities and challenges of the AI revolution.
Essay Task
Students should write an essay addressing the following themes:
Essays should demonstrate clear thinking, originality, and practical insight.
Beyond the cash prizes, selected participants will also receive dedicated mentorship and guidance from professionals and educators, supporting their academic and personal development.
To be eligible to submit an essay entry for the ITET Gem Essay Competition, you must:
All entries must be submitted through the official submission form.
How to Submit
Students should submit their essays through the official submission portal:
https://itetgemfoundation.com/submit-essay/
A submission button is also available on this page to guide applicants directly to the form.
Competition Timeline
Competition Opens:
1 April 2026
Submission Deadline:
15 May 2026
Late submissions will not be accepted.
Contact and Further Information
For updates and further information, please visit:
Website:
www.itetgemfoundation.com
Essay Competition Page:
https://itetgemfoundation.com/essay-competition/
Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn:
@itetgemfoundation
About Itet Gem Foundation
The Itet Gem Foundation is committed to supporting young people in discovering and maximising their potential through mentorship, educational initiatives, and intellectual engagement.
The Annual Essay Competition is one of the Foundation’s flagship initiatives aimed at nurturing thoughtful, confident, and future ready young leaders.
Unfortunately, the ITET Gem Foundation is unable to review essays sent through any other medium, and only entries submitted by email will be accepted.
