The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is dedicated to raising awareness and sparking new ideas to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our Tax for SDGs Initiative plays a key role in this mission by highlighting how effective taxation can fund sustainable development.

In line with this, we're excited to launch an Undergraduate Essay Competition. This contest invites students to share their thoughts and propose solutions on how tax policies can drive progress toward the SDGs in Nigeria. Top essays will be adapted into policy briefs.

Objective

The main objective of the competition is to engage undergraduate students in a meaningful discourse on the intersection of taxation, trade and sustainable development. By participating, the students will enhance their understanding of public finance and its impact on social, economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development.

Theme

Participants are encouraged to write on one of the following thematic areas:

• Exploring the potential of Innovative Tax Policies and Strategies to drive sustainable development for progress towards closing the SDGs financing Gap in Nigeria.

• Exploring linkages between inclusive and sustainable tax systems on environmental sustainability, digital economy and trade.

• Strengthening tax systems to combat Illicit Financial Flows in Nigeria for progress towards closing the SDGs financing Gap in Nigeria.

Eligibility

The competition is open to all undergraduate Nigerian students in any discipline, currently enrolled in a recognized university or college in the country.

Participating students must submit a national identification, their university identification from their university.

Submission Guidelines

• Essay Length: Essays should be between 1,500 and 2,000 words.

• Language: Submissions should be in English.

• Format: Essays must be typed, double-spaced, and submitted in PDF.

• Originality: Submissions must be original and unpublished. Plagiarism will result in disqualification. Do not use AI.

• Deadline: All entries must be submitted by 1 October 2024.

• Submission: Essays should be submitted electronically via https://tinyurl.com/Tax4SDGs.

Evaluation Criteria

Essays will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Relevance: Alignment with the theme and focus on the role of taxation in achieving the SDGs in Nigeria.

• Innovation: Originality of ideas and the practicality of proposed solutions. 

• Analysis: Depth of research, critical thinking, and understanding of the theme.

• Clarity: Coherence, structure, and articulation of arguments.

• Impact: Potential of the essay's recommendations to influence policy and practice such as influencing sustainable business practices in Nigeria.

• Accountability: Essay’s consideration of citizenry's responsibility to tax systems and the relationship between active participation through tax to the social contract.

Awards and Recognition

• First Prize: NGN 1,000,000 and a certificate of recognition.

• Second Prize: NGN 750,000 and a certificate of recognition.

• Third Prize: NGN 500,000 and a certificate of recognition.

• Launch Date: 28 August 2024

• Submission Deadline: 1 October 2024

• Winners Announcement: 29 October 2024

There will be consolation prizes for other top entries.

Timeline

• Launch Date: 28 August 2024

• Submission Deadline: 1 October 2024

• Winners Announcement: 29 October 2024