Entries open for World Bank Essay Competition 2006

Entries are still open for the International Essay Competition 2006, organized by the World Bank. Submissions started being accepted on February 1 and the deadline runs until April 2. The award is designed to identify, document and disseminate young people’s thoughts on global issues.

By asking two simple questions on youth involvement in social activism – “how do you contribute to solving community problems?” and “how do you influence decision making?” – the initiative aims to encourage youth to participate in “building a secure future based on practical solutions” formulated by them.

The competition is open for young people aged between 18 and 25, with the exception of those enrolled in a PhD program. Essays may be submitted in English, French or Spanish.

The shortlist of selected essays for the final will be released on May 1. Presentation of the finalists will take place on May 29-30, in Tokyo, Japan. Winners will receive cash prizes of US$5,000 and US$1,000.

Consult the winning essays from 2005 and read more about the Essay Competition 2006 on the World Bank web site: www.essaycompetition.org.