Global Youth Essay Competition & Festival of Ideas

An international essay competition and accompanying Festival of Ideas for young people, run by NNEdPro. The competition invites students to submit original essays (with presentations considered) on a themed topic; 2026 theme concerns water and AI. Finalists attend a festival event in St Andrews, Scotland and may be offered ongoing participation in NNEdPro youth activities.

Winners, runners-up and shortlisted participants are recognised.

Open to young people in two age categories: Junior (age 13 to 15) and Senior (age 16 to 19).

Submit an original essay; presentations are also considered and form part of judging.