Applications are now open for the National Essay Competition for Secondary School Students 2025, organized by The Sterling Team in collaboration with the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Nigeria. This nationwide creative writing challenge invites young Nigerians to express their ideas, creativity, and passion for environmental action while showcasing how climate challenges within their communities can be turned into opportunities for sustainable growth.

The competition aims to engage and empower senior secondary school students across Nigeria to think critically, write persuasively, and propose innovative solutions that can inspire both local and national change. It forms part of the activities marking the National Sustainability Week, underscoring the organizers’ shared commitment to environmental awareness, youth engagement, and sustainable development.

The essay topic for this year’s competition is “Turning Climate Challenges in My Community into Opportunities for Growth.” All participants must be current senior secondary school students (SS1–SS3) enrolled in public or government-owned schools across Nigeria. Each student and school is allowed to submit only one entry, and the application form must be completed accurately, including contact details of a teacher or principal for verification.

Essays must be original, typed, and not exceed 1,000 words. AI-generated or plagiarized content is strictly prohibited and will lead to disqualification. Each applicant is also required to record a 2–3 minute video presentation of their essay as proof of authorship. Videos must be recorded vertically (portrait format) with clear audio and visuals for fair evaluation.

The top three winners will receive exciting cash prizes: ₦500,000 for the first prize, ₦300,000 for the second prize, and ₦200,000 for the third prize. Beyond the rewards, this competition seeks to nurture a new generation of environmentally conscious and solution-driven young Nigerians who will lead the way toward a more sustainable future.

Interested students are encouraged to submit their entries before the deadline of November 14, 2025 (11:59 PM WAT) through the official submission link: https://forms.gle/FxaDHgbsxMTWNRWs9. Late entries will not be considered.

For more information or inquiries, students and teachers may contact the SDSN Nigeria Project Team via email at nigeria@sdsnyouth.org.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity