Recognition and Participation
The competition creates visible recognition for students contributing thoughtful work on standards and trade.
Open for Entries
Institutional Excellence
13th ZABS Essay Competition
The Role of Harmonized Standards in Reducing Technical Barriers to Trade
13th Annual Competition
“The Role of Harmonized Standards in Reducing Technical Barriers to Trade”
Open to all Zambian university and college students. Win cash prizes and recognition from Zambia's national standards body.
13
Annual Editions
Since 2012
2,500+
Total Participants
To date
K65,000+
Prize Money
Awarded to date
50+
Universities
Represented
Competition Highlights
A programme with visible recognition.
These images help the page feel more credible by showing real participants, prizes, certificates, and public recognition.
Certificate Presentation
Shortlisted entrants and winners receive formal acknowledgement through public-facing ZABS events.
Prize Giving
Cash prizes and institutional recognition make the competition feel credible, serious, and aspirational.
Prize Pool
Cash Prizes & Recognition
Top 5 winners receive cash prizes. All shortlisted entrants receive certificates of participation.
1st Place
K6,500
Gold Medal + Certificate + Publication
2nd Place
K5,500
Silver Medal + Certificate + Publication
3rd Place
K4,500
Bronze Medal + Certificate + Publication
4th Place
K3,500
Certificate + Publication
5th Place
K2,500
Certificate + Publication
All amounts in Zambian Kwacha (ZMW)
Competition Theme
“The Role of Harmonized Standards in Reducing Technical Barriers to Trade”
Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) - differing standards, testing procedures, and regulations - are a major obstacle to international commerce. Harmonised standards, developed through bodies such as ISO, IEC, and ARSO, can break down these barriers and facilitate seamless trade.
Essays should explore how harmonisation of standards contributes to trade facilitation, regional integration, economic development, and consumer protection, with reference to Zambia, the SADC region, and/or the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Eligibility
- Zambian nationals or residents enrolled in a recognised university or college
- Students studying in any discipline (science, arts, business, engineering, etc.)
- Must be registered full-time or part-time students at the time of submission
- Each student may submit only one essay
- The essay must be the original work of the student and not previously published
- Essays must be submitted in English
Submission Requirements
Essay Guidelines
Follow these guidelines to ensure your submission is considered
Word Count
2,000 - 3,000 words (excluding references)
Language
English
Format
Microsoft Word (.docx) or PDF
Font
Times New Roman, 12pt, double-spaced
Citation Style
Harvard Referencing System
Submission
Email to essays@zabs.org.zm
Submission Instructions
Subject line: “13th Essay Competition - [Your Full Name] - [Institution]”
Attach your essay and a copy of your student identity card as PDF files. Submissions without proof of enrolment will be disqualified.
Evaluation Process
Judging Criteria
Essays are evaluated by a panel of experts based on these criteria
Content & Relevance
30%Addresses the theme effectively with strong arguments
Critical Analysis
25%Demonstrates analytical thinking and original insights
Structure & Organisation
20%Logical flow, clear introduction, body, and conclusion
Language & Style
15%Proper grammar, vocabulary, and academic tone
Referencing
10%Correct citation format and appropriate sources
Important Dates
Competition Timeline
Key dates for the 13th ZABS Essay Competition
CompletedJanuary 2026
Competition Opens
Official announcement and guidelines released
Currently Open31 March 2026
Submission Deadline
All essays must be submitted by midnight
UpcomingApril 2026
Judging Panel Review
Expert panel evaluates all submissions
UpcomingMay 2026
Winners Announced
Results published on ZABS website and social media
UpcomingJune 2026
Prize Giving Ceremony
Awards presented at ZABS annual Quality Awards event
Previous Editions
Past Competition Themes & Winners
Celebrating excellence in academic writing over the years
2024 (12th)
1st Place
University of Zambia
by Maria Banda
“The Role of Standards in Sustainable Development”
Explored how Zambian standards contribute to environmental sustainability and economic growth.
2023 (11th)
1st Place
Copperbelt University
by John Phiri
“Standards and the Digital Economy”
Analyzed the impact of ICT standards on Zambia's digital transformation journey.
2022 (10th)
1st Place
Mulungushi University
by Patricia Mwansa
“Quality Infrastructure and COVID-19 Recovery”
Examined the role of standards in building resilient health and economic systems.
2021 (9th)
1st Place
University of Zambia
by David Mumba
“Standards for Consumer Protection”
Investigated the effectiveness of compulsory standards in protecting Zambian consumers.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about the essay competition
Can I submit a co-authored essay?
No. Essays must be the original work of a single author. Co-authored submissions will be disqualified.
Is there a registration fee?
No. Participation in the ZABS Essay Competition is completely free.
Can I submit an essay that was written for a class?
Yes, as long as it addresses the current theme and has not been previously published.
When will winners be announced?
Winners will be announced in May 2026 on the ZABS website and social media channels.
Will I receive feedback on my essay?
Due to the high volume of submissions, individual feedback is not provided.
Can international students apply?
Yes, as long as you are enrolled in a recognised Zambian institution.
Ready to Compete?
Ready to Showcase Your Writing Skills?
Submit your essay by 31 March 2026 and stand a chance to win up to K6,500. Questions? Contact us at essays@zabs.org.zm.