National Essay Writing Competition

The Role of Academia in Upholding the Rule of Law and Human Rights in Ethiopia

Ethiopian Law Schools Association (ELSA) and Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Office Ethiopia/African Union are pleased to announce a National Essay Writing Competition on the theme "The Role of Academia in Upholding the Rule of Law and Human Rights in Ethiopia." This competition aims to foster critical thinking and scholarly discourse on the vital role of academia in promoting the rule of law and safeguarding human rights in our society.

About the Essay competition

The multifaceted role of academia in upholding the rule of law and human rights in Ethiopia presents a rich tapestry of historical, theoretical, and practical considerations. We, therefore, can begin by examining how academia's involvement has evolved throughout Ethiopian history, drawing parallels to global trends in academic activism and applying diverse theoretical frameworks to analyze its current impact. Further exploration can delve into specific areas of influence, such as how research sheds light on human rights abuses, informs legal reforms, and educates future generations of changemakers. The power of public awareness and dialogue generated by academics through conferences, publications, and public engagement deserves its own spotlight, alongside direct legal and policy advocacy efforts. However, navigating challenges like restricted freedoms and resource constraints necessitates exploring strategies for collaboration, capacity building, and measuring the true impact of academia's contributions. Additionally, focusing on specific disciplines, analyzing human rights within various contexts, and showcasing impactful case studies can offer further nuance and depth to your exploration. Remember, this is your canvas to paint – choose the sub-themes that resonate most with your unique perspective and voice!

Eligibility Requirements

This competition aims to spark critical thinking and scholarly discussion on how academia can strengthen the rule of law and safeguard human rights in Ethiopia. We invite all passionate Ethiopian undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral students in law, political science, philosophy, or related social sciences, currently studying within Ethiopia, to share their thoughts and insights through this essay competition.

Theme of the Essay Competition

The essay competition focuses on the theme "The Role of Academia in Upholding the Rule of Law and Human Rights in Ethiopia." Applicants can either work on the given main topic or can identify a specific sub-theme within this topic that they are passionate about and develop a compelling essay.

Essay Length:  Maximum 3000 words (excluding references, bibliography, and footnotes).

Formatting: They must be typed in English for a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 15 pages, excluding footnotes, and sent as a PDF file. Page size must be standard (8”x11” or A4). The font size may not be smaller than 12 with 1.5 line spacing and applicants are advised to use a font such as Times New Roman, using Calibri that is recognized by a large number of software programs.

Referencing Style: Use a dedicated referencing style (e.g., APA, Harvard, OSCOLA, etc.) for proper citation and to avoid plagiarism.

Originality: Submissions must be original, creative, and unpublished works. Plagiarized or previously published works will be disqualified.

Language: Essays shall be written in professional English.

Deadline: Submit your essay no later than 20 April 2024. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Limit: Each participant shall submit only one essay.

Submission Method: Submit your essay as an attachment to generalm.elsa@yahoo.com and info.ethiopia@kas.de. Use the subject line: "National Essay Competition Submission."

Personal Information: In the body of the E-Mail (but not on the essay parts), provide the following information: full name, contact address, phone number, E-Mail address.

Educational Institution/Organization: Applicants must submit either an enrollment letter or their current registration slips along with their essay.

Evaluation Criteria:

The essays will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Understanding of the concept of the rule of law and human right demonstrated knowledge of the law and policies regarding the rule of law in Ethiopia.
• Critical analysis and evaluation of legal principles: insightful analysis of the challenges, progress, and gaps in promoting the role of academia in the enhancement of the rule of law in Ethiopia.
• Originality of Ideas: creative thinking and original perspectives on the topic, proposing innovative ideas for future progress, and the role of young people.
• Structure: coherence, organization, grammar, overall quality of writing and the adherence to the guidelines.

Selection procedure:

• Essays received by the deadline are assigned to at least two judges, who return scores to us that are averaged using the mathematical mean to determine finalists. For example, if one judge gives an essay 85/100 and a second judge gives it 75/100, the overall score will be 85+75÷2 or 80/100 (80%).

Awards: The top three essays will receive the following cash prizes:

First Place: 30,000 ETB

Second Place: 25,000 ETB

Third Place: 20,000 ETB

Certificates of Participation

All registered students who timely submit an essay will receive a Certificate of Participation.

Workshop and Presentation: The winning essays will be presented at a workshop organized by ELSA and KAS Office Ethiopia/African Union on 15 May 2024. This workshop will provide authors with the opportunity to showcase their ideas, engage in fruitful discussions, and contribute to the academic and politico-legal community in Ethiopia.

Important Note: By participating in this competition, you grant permission to ELSA and KAS Office Ethiopia/African Union to publish, reproduce, and distribute your essay, with appropriate credit given to the author. However, the copyright of the essay will remain with the author.

Declaration

Please include the following statement on the last page of your essay:

Certification: I, __________________, attest that the attached essay is my own original work. [Include your full name and the date you sent the essay.]

For further questions or inquiries, please contact us at generalm.elsa@yahoo.com, or info.ethiopia@kas.de