The Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE)'s essay contest on the theme Engaging Youth in Reform, gives young people (18 - 30 years old) the opportunity to share ideas on three topics. They are:

1. Citizenship in a Democratic Society - What needs to be done to develop a sense of citizenship in young people and help them realise their role in a democratic society?
2. Educational Reform and Employment Opportunities - How can you reform your country’s education system so that graduates have the necessary skills for employment in the public and private sectors?
3. Entrepreneurship and Leadership - What needs to be done in your country to provide youth with the opportunity to become entrepreneurs and/or leaders in their communities?

In each category, a first, second, and third place winner will be chosen by a panel of CIPE staff and international partners. Nine US$1,000 honoraria will be given to the top three essays on each topic. The three winning essays from each category will be published as "Economic Reform Feature Service" articles. Other essays of merit will be considered for publication as well.


The deadline for application is March 1 2009.

Click here to view guidelines and eligibility criteria online.


Eligibility:
The essay competition is open to students and young professionals aged 18-30. Special weight will be given to essays submitted by citizens of non-Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries.
(Click here for a list of 30 OECD countries.)


Judging Criteria:
Essays will be judged on clarity, originality, and their contribution to the understanding of development issues facing countries. The logic of the ideas expressed is more important than perfect English grammar.


Formatting Guidelines:

• All essays must be written in English.
• All essays must be original and unpublished.
• Word count: 2,000-4,000.
• Indicate the essay's category on the cover page.
• Provide full contact info on the cover page, including citizenship.

How to Submit:
Email a copy of the essay as a MS Word document to essay@cipe.org
An email will be sent confirming receipt of the submission.

Email from Kathryn Greene to The Communication Initiative on December 10 2008.