Africa’s Future Economic Leaders (AFEL) has selected the outstanding winners of its first Economic Impact Challenge, in a celebration of intellect, ingenuity, and a dedication to changing Africa’s economic destiny. This competition, which runs from October to December 2023, not only highlights the importance of youth-driven solutions but also demonstrates AFEL’s dedication to encouraging economic awareness and creativity across the African continent.
AFEL’s Economic Impact Challenge seeks to encourage research, creativity, and active participation among economics and law students, focusing on enhancing their understanding and capacities regarding continental policies such as the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). Aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, AFEL’s programs aim to shape a positive future for Africa.
The inaugural cohort of the challenge targeted universities in the South-Western region of Nigeria, bringing together talented individuals from eight different universities. Participants, each representing their university, presented unique visions for Africa’s economic future.
The project’s primary objective emphasized promoting youth participation in the economy, aligning with SDGs 8 and 9, and striving for gender parity. Out of the 53 Nigerian tertiary institution students directly involved, 30 were females, and 23 were males.
The AFEL Economic Impact Challenge recognized excellence in two categories: the Prize for Economic Policy Advocacy and the Prize for Outstanding Research and Presentation. This categorization aimed to educate students on the importance of advocating for policy implementation and challenged them to think critically about how continental policies can benefit local businesses.
Following a thorough evaluation by competent judges, AFEL is excited to announce the winners from different schools who made exceptional contributions to the economic discourse:
Category 1: Policy Advocacy and Implementation
1st Place: University of Ibadan
2nd Place: Obafemi Awolowo University
3rd Place: Babcock University
Category 2: Policy Research and Presentation
1st Place: University of Ibadan
2nd Place: Obafemi Awolowo University
3rd Place: Adekunle Ajasin University
These outstanding students have not only demonstrated academic prowess but also showcased their dedication to shaping Africa’s economic landscape through insightful research and policy advocacy.
