The Presidential African Youth in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Competition is 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.
The Third Edition (2026), is to be hosted by the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt, through the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT). 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.
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Building on the strong foundation of previous editions, including the 2025 Final Showcase held in Johannesburg, South Africa, in partnership with the Government of South Africa through the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and presented alongside the G20 AI in Africa Conference, the competition continues to evolve as a catalyst for impact.
The Presidential African youth in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics competition is an official AU Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa STISA 2034 initiative.
Submissions OPEN!
This competition connects young innovators with investors, policymakers, and industry pioneers, driving real-world applications of AI and automation while influencing regulatory frameworks and funding mechanisms to accelerate Africa’s digital and industrial evolution. With AUDA-NEPAD, Ele-vate AI, and the AU Member states championing this movement, the Presidential African Youth in AI and Robotics Competition stands as a beacon of Africa’s commitment to technological sovereignty, economic resilience, and global innovation leadership turning potential into prosperity.
The call for submissions for the Third Edition of the Presidential African Youth in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Competition 2026 is now OPEN!
2025 saw 3257 Submissions from Across Africa by African youth
We are pleased to share that in 2024, the Competition received 1,008 competitive Artificial Intelligence and Robotics solutions from across all regions of the African continent. Building on this momentum, 2025 saw an extraordinary 3,257 submissions from innovators across Africa. We look forward with great anticipation to the 2026 edition of the competition.
55 Countries
The Presidential African Youth in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics competition is open to all African Union (AU) Member States. The AU is made up of 55 Member States which represent all the countries on the African continent. The Competition features 12 categories covering some of the most crucial sectors in Africa’s development along with a Prestigious Presidential award.
1. 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.
2. Registration:
– Applications open on the 10th of February 2026 at 10:00 GMT.
– Provide accurate information; any falsification will result in disqualification.
– Only projects that meet the category specified, terms and conditions will be contacted.
3. Project Submission Deadline:
– 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.
4. Intellectual Property:
– Participants retain ownership of their projects.
– The organisers may use project details for promotional purposes.
5. Code of Conduct:
– Respectful and ethical behaviour is expected.
– Any form of cheating or plagiarism will lead to disqualification.
6. Judging Criteria:
– Projects will be evaluated based on innovation, functionality, and impact.
– Judges’ decisions are final and not subject to appeal.
7. Prizes:
– Prizes will be awarded based on merit.
– All finalists will be informed via email and announced publicly on our Social Media platforms (Currently available on X and LinkedIn) on the 17th of September 2026.
8. Final Event Attendance:
– Finalists must attend the virtual or physical award ceremony.
– Unavailability /no response (Unreachable) may result in the forfeiture of prizes.
- Presidential Awards finalists will recieve Global recognition at United Nations International Telecommunication Union ‘s AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva 07-10th July 2026
– Presidential Awards Ceremony (live) 12th -13th October 2026
– Virtual Awards Ceremony October 2026
10. Organiser’s Rights:
– The organizers reserve the right to modify rules and guidelines if necessary.
– Failure to prove your work’s concept and originality will disqualify you.
– In unforeseen circumstances, the competition may be canceled or postponed.
11. Contact Information:
– For inquiries, contact innovationhub@ele-vate.co.za
Please note that Group Entries must be submitted by the group leader and the project paper must indicate that it is a group project listing all the team members. Kindly respond to your submission acknowledgement email with your prototype or project paper.
2026 COMPETITION FOCUS AREAS
AI and Innovation in Mining
Projects focusing on groundbreaking applications of artificial intelligence and Robotics to sustainably improve the mining sector.
Futuristic FinTech Solutions
Finance Projects, Tools and Innovations promoting ethical, inclusive and efficient finance practices whilst upholding environmental, social, and economic responsibility.
Best Robotics Design
Projects showcasing creativity in designing/building adaptable robotics for specific tasks or challenges in a manner that boosts efficiency by boosting human productivity capacity per task tailored to the local African context.
AI and Robotics Best Healthcare Solutions
Projects and Innovations leveraging AI and robotics to address challenges, boost efficiency and facilitate breakthroughs in healthcare.
Education Enhancement
Initiatives using AI or robotics to inclusively, sustainably and efficiently improve educational offering and learning experiences for students and educators.
Ethical AI
Projects addressing ethical considerations in the development and application of AI.
AI and Robotics Agricultural Solutions
Solutions enhancing efficiency and sustainability in the agriculture sector through AI and Robotics.
Community Impact and Good Governance Innovation
Projects demonstrating a positive impact on local communities through AI or robotics.
Innovation in the Construction and Architecture industry
Projects demonstrating a positive impact and revolutionary efficiency in the fields of Construction and Architecture.
Climate Action Technology
Projects demonstrating a sustainability and efficiency in addressing the adverse effects of Climate Change for a more inclusive, progressive and sustainable future.
Quantum Computing and Open Category
For Quantum Computing backed projects (given the fact that most quantum computing research in the continent is still in early stages) and Emerging Technology Projects that don’t fit into specific categories but showcase exceptional creativity and innovation to sustainably leverage technological advancements for the socioeconomic development.
Presidential Award
The competition’s most prestigious honour. Awarded to groundbreaking, transformational initiatives that contribute towards inclusive and sustainable progress across Africa, This honour recognises visionary innovations that create a lasting impact . shaping a future of resilience, equity and prosperity for the continent.
Foundational Development Partner
The African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) stands as a key foundational partner in the African Youth in Artificial Intelligence & Robotics Competition since it’s establishment, reinforcing its commitment to harnessing innovation as a driver for Africa’s sustainable development. As a pivotal institution advancing Africa’s development through Agenda 2063, AUDA-NEPAD plays an instrumental role in shaping policies that foster technological advancements, industrialization, and inclusive economic growth.
How to Apply
Interested Applicants can apply using the Link provided 👉 Here
