UBA Foundation has raised the stakes for its 14th annual National Essay Competition, offering increased cash prizes as entries open for the 2024 edition.

The contest, aimed at promoting literacy and intellectual growth among senior secondary students in Nigeria and Africa, will now award N7.5 million to the first-place winner.

Bola Atta, CEO of UBA Foundation, stated that the prize increase reflects their commitment to education amidst economic challenges. Second and third-place winners will receive N5 million and N3.5 million, respectively, as part of the effort to ease financial barriers to quality education.

This year’s essay topic, “Discuss the Impact of Carbon Emission on Climate in Nigeria: Challenges and Solutions,” invites students to submit handwritten essays via the competition’s digital portal by November 8, 2024. Seventy-five top entries will receive cash prizes, with finalists competing for further honors and educational resources, including new laptops.

Atta reiterated UBA Foundation’s mission to foster literacy and empower African youth, citing the essay competition and ‘Read Africa’ program as key initiatives to shape future leaders and intellectuals across the continent.