Johannesburg secondary school learners urged to enter 2026 SADC Essay Competition
Learners are invited to submit entries for the 2026 SADC Secondary School Essay Competition on the topic: How can SADC achieve industrialisation, transform agriculture, and energy transition for a Resilient Future?
Secondary school learners in the Johannesburg area have until 24 April 2026 to submit entries for the 2026 SADC Secondary School Essay Competition.
Here are the competition instructions:
The essay must contain a maximum of 1 000 words in English. Essays that do not comply with the permissible number of words will not be considered. A complete word count must be provided at the end of the essay.
Learners must provide references for their work; however, references do not contribute towards the word count of the entry.
To facilitate simple sequencing, each answer must be accompanied by the question at the top. Learners are cautioned against using the bullet point format for their work.
Read more: Johannesburg secondary school learners urged to enter 2026 SADC Essay Competition
All entries should be submitted to sadcessay@dbe.gov.za by 24 April 2026. Learners should ensure that they address the questions listed below in their essays:
- What strategies and policies can SADC adopt to accelerate industrialisation while ensuring regional value chains and competitive manufacturing? (20 points)
- How can SADC modernise farming systems through technology, irrigation, and agro processing to boost productivity and resilience against climate shocks? (20 points)
- What opportunities exist for SADC to expand renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro, geothermal) and improve energy access to support industries and communities sustainably? (20 points)
- How can stronger cooperation among SADC Member States enhance cross-border trade, infrastructure development, and knowledge-sharing for balanced growth? (20 points)
- What policies can ensure that industrial growth, better farming, and clean energy transitions create jobs, reduce poverty, and protect the environment in the region? (20 points)
Winners will be awarded a cash prize as follows:
First prize is USD 500, second prize is 300 USD, and third prize is USD 200.
For more information, contact: Matome Sekgota on 012 357 3373 or sekgota.m@dbe.gov.za and Lucky Maluleke on 012 357 3494 or maluleke.l@dbe.gov.za
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