The African Youth in AI and Robotics Competition 2026 is a pan-African contest that invites young innovators aged 15 to 35 from all African Union Member States to submit projects in artificial intelligence, robotics, and emerging technologies. This competition aims to advance AI and robotics skills among African youth through 12 categories and a Presidential Award.
The competition is led by Ele-vate AI Africa and the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), co-convened with AU Member States. The 2026 edition is hosted by the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt through MCIT. Finalists receive global recognition at the ITU AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva.
African Youth in AI and Robotics Competition Benefits
- Prizes awarded based on merit
- Public announcement of finalists and winners
- Participation in virtual or physical award ceremonies for finalists
- Global recognition for Presidential Awards finalists at the ITU AI for Good Global Summit
- Exposure to investors, policymakers, and industry partners
African Youth in AI and Robotics Competition Eligibility Criteria
- African youth aged 15 to 35 years
- Open to individuals or teams from AU Member States
- Applicants under 18 must provide written consent from a parent or legal guardian
- Projects must align with the specified competition categories and guidelines
How to Apply for African Youth in AI and Robotics Competition
- Complete the registration process on the official competition page
- Follow the submission instructions for your project paper or prototype
- If under 18, include written consent from a parent or legal guardian
- Review the official category guidance and contest requirements carefully
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the African Youth in AI and Robotics Competition. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the African Youth in AI and Robotics Competition?
It is a pan-African contest for young innovators aged 15-35 from AU member states to submit projects in artificial intelligence, robotics, and emerging technologies. The competition features 12 categories and a Presidential Award.
Who can apply for this competition?
African youth aged 15 to 35 years from any African Union Member State can apply. Individuals or teams are welcome. Applicants under 18 must provide written consent from a parent or legal guardian.
What is the deadline to submit a project?
The deadline to submit AI or robotics projects is 30 June 2026 at 21:45 GMT. This deadline has been extended.
What are the benefits of participating?
Benefits include prizes based on merit, public announcement of finalists and winners, participation in award ceremonies, global recognition at the ITU AI for Good Global Summit, and exposure to investors and policymakers.
How do I apply for the competition?
Complete the registration process on the official competition page, then follow the submission instructions for your project paper or prototype. If under 18, include written parental consent.
When will finalists be announced?
Finalists are expected to be announced on 17 September 2026. The final award activities may take place virtually or physically, with final dates announced on the official site.
Where will the final ceremony be held?
For the 2026 edition, the final ceremony is to be hosted in Egypt. There is also a live Presidential Awards ceremony on 12–13 October 2026 and a virtual awards ceremony in October 2026.
What documents are required for submission?
Required documents include a registration form with accurate information, a project paper or prototype submitted in response to the acknowledgement email, and written parental or legal guardian consent for applicants under 18.
Is the competition open to teams?
Yes, the competition is open to both individuals and teams from AU Member States. Projects must align with the specified competition categories and guidelines.
Who organizes the competition?
The competition is led by Ele-vate AI Africa and the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), co-convened with AU Member States. The 2026 edition is hosted by the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt through MCIT.
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