AFEL announces winners of its inaugural Economic Impact Challenge
In event that celebrates intellect, innovation, and a commitment to shaping Africa’s economic future, Africa’s Future Economic Leaders (AFEL) proudly announced the exceptional winners of its inaugural Economic Impact Challenge.
This challenge, held from October to December 2023, not only recognises the importance of youth-driven solutions but also highlights AFEL’s dedication to promoting economic awareness and innovation across the African continent.
AFEL’s Economic Impact Challenge, according to the organisers, is aimed to encourage research, creativity, and active participation among economics and law students, with a focus on enhancing their knowledge and capacities regarding continental policies such as the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).
AFEL’s programmes and initiatives align with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063 to create the desired future for Africa.
The challenge’s first cohort targeted universities in the South-Western region of Nigeria, bringing together talented individuals from eight different universities. Each participant represented their university with unique visions for Africa’s economic future.
The project’s objective emphasised promoting youth participation in the economy, in line with SDGs 8 and 9, and achieving gender parity. Out of the 53 Nigerian tertiary institution students who directly participated in the project, 30 were females and 23 were males.
The AFEL Economic Impact Challenge awarded prizes in two categories: the Prize for Economic Policy Advocacy and the Prize for Outstanding Research and Presentation. This categorization aimed to educate students about the importance of advocating for policy implementation and to challenge them to think critically on how continental policies can benefit local businesses.
After a rigorous evaluation by competent judges, AFEL is thrilled 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
The students representing these schools displayed a profound understanding of economic challenges and also presented innovative solutions that aligned with AFEL’s vision of supporting youths in driving economic development in Africa.
Through the Economic Impact Challenge, AFEL actively contributes to building a community of future leaders who will play pivotal roles in steering Africa towardsprosperity. During the feedback session, the coordinating team expressed gratitude to the participants for their valuable contributions, and the participants commended the organising team for providing a platform that promotes a practical understanding of complex economic concepts beyond their regular educational setting.
AFEL aims to create an expansive network, fostering dynamic connections between aspiring minds, industry experts, and visionary thought leaders. In the first quarter of 2024, the Economic Impact Challenge will be extended to youths in the rest of Nigeria’s geopolitical zones through their universities, demonstrating the program’s commitment to creating a sustainable impact in Africa.
The initiative was facilitated by Awakessien Mekitmfon (Co-convener) and Oluwatosin Wilde (Programme Manager), respectively.
