Applications are open for The Presidential African Youth in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Competition (Third Edition, 2026). The deadline to submit AI or robotics projects is 30 June 2026 at 21:45 GMT. This pan-African contest supports young innovators working in artificial intelligence, robotics, and related emerging technologies across African Union Member States.
The competition is led by Ele-vate AI Africa and the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD). In addition, it is co-convened with AU Member States. The 2026 edition is hosted by the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt through MCIT.
Key Details:
Application Deadline: Submit AI or robotics projects by 30th of June 2026 at 21:45 GMT (Deadline extended)
Eligible Countries: All African Union (AU) Member States (55 countries)
Contest Type: Pan-African AI and robotics competition for youth
Prize / Benefits: Not specified – please see official page
About the Contest
This competition aims to advance AI, robotics, and emerging technologies among African youth. It is open to individuals and teams. Moreover, the contest features 12 categories and a Presidential Award.
According to the official information provided, registration opens on 10 February 2026 at 10:00 GMT. Finalists are expected to be announced on 17 September 2026. Final award activities may take place virtually or physically, while final dates are announced on the official site.
For the 2026 edition, the final ceremony is to be hosted in Egypt. In addition, Presidential Awards finalists receive recognition at the ITU AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva. The official page also notes a live Presidential Awards ceremony on 12–13 October 2026 and a virtual awards ceremony in October 2026.
Eligibility
- 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
Benefits mentioned on the official information include:
- 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
Required documents and submission materials include:
- Registration form with accurate information
- Project paper or prototype, submitted in response to the acknowledgement email
- Written parental or legal guardian consent for applicants under 18
How to Apply
Interested applicants should complete the registration process on the official competition page. Then, follow the submission instructions for your project paper or prototype. If you are under 18, include written consent from a parent or legal guardian.
Before you apply, review the official category guidance and contest requirements carefully. Because dates and ceremony arrangements may change, always check the official page for the latest updates.
👉 Visit the official contest page for details
