Introduction
Applications are now open for the Presidential African Youth in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Competition, a flagship continental initiative advancing Africa’s leadership in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) through Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Emerging Technologies. Co-convened by the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) and Ele-vate AI Africa, the initiative unites policy, industry, and innovation to empower Africa’s youth and accelerate inclusive, technology-driven development.
About the Program
For the Third Edition (2026), the program is honoured to be hosted by the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt, a continental and global leader in digital transformation. Egypt continues to set the pace in AI readiness and innovation leadership, driving bold national initiatives that strengthen Africa’s innovation ecosystem and advance digital industrialization at scale. The competition continues to evolve as a catalyst for impact and is an official AU Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa initiative.
Eligibility
- Participants must be African youth aged between 15 and 35 years. Applicants under the age of 18 are required to provide written consent from a Parent or Legal guardian.
- Teams or individuals can enter the competition.
Application Process
- Provide accurate information; any falsification will result in disqualification.
- Only projects that meet the category specified, terms and conditions will be contacted.
- Submit AI or robotics projects by 30th of June 2026 at 21:45 GMT (Deadline extended).
- Projects must align with the competition theme and guidelines.
Terms and Conditions
Intellectual Property
- Participants retain ownership of their projects.
- The organisers may use project details for promotional purposes.
Code of Conduct
- Respectful and ethical behaviour is expected.
- Any form of cheating or plagiarism will lead to disqualification.
Judging Criteria
- Projects will be evaluated based on innovation, functionality, and impact.
- Judges’ decisions are final and not subject to appeal.
Prizes and Recognition
- Prizes will be awarded based on merit.
- All finalists will be informed via email and announced publicly on the 17th of September 2026.
- Presidential Awards finalists will receive Global recognition at the AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva, 07-10th July 2026.
- The Presidential Awards Ceremony will be held live on 12th-13th October 2026, with a virtual Awards Ceremony in October 2026.
Final Event Attendance
- Finalists must attend the virtual or physical award ceremony.
- Unavailability/no response (Unreachable) may result in the forfeiture of prizes.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 30th of June 2026.
Grant Atlas