Deadline: June 30, 2026
Applications are open for the Presidential African Youth in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Competition 2026. 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.
For the Third Edition (2026), they are honoured 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.
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.
Categories
- 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.
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.
Judging Criteria
- Projects will be evaluated based on innovation, functionality, and impact.
- Judges’ decisions are final and not subject to appeal.
Application
Submit AI or robotics projects by 30th of June 2026 at 21:45 GMT.
For more information, visit Presidential African Youth in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Competition.
