Announcement: The First Essay Competition for University Students on Economic Development of the Kurdistan Region

1. Introduction

The Kurdistan Organization for Development (KOD), supported by the Korean Consulate in Erbil, Kurdistan Chronicle, and Shinglbana Resort, is delighted to announce the launch of the First Essay competition dedicated to exploring the economic development of the Kurdistan Region. This initiative invites undergraduate students to contribute innovative perspectives, critical analyses, and forward-thinking solutions to the region’s economic challenges and opportunities.

2. Eligibility

Current undergraduate (Bachelor’s) students at KRI universities with an interest in the region’s economic development are eligible to apply.

3. Topics: Please choose one topic among the topics listed below: 

A. General Economic Development Topics

     1. Challenges and Opportunities for Economic Growth in the KRI

          — What are the main obstacles to sustainable development, and how can they be overcome?

     2. The Role of Oil and Gas in Kurdistan’s Economy: Boon or Burden?

          — Analyze the dependence on hydrocarbons and its long-term implications.

     3. Diversifying the KRI Economy: Which Sectors Hold the Most Potential?

          — Explore alternatives like agriculture, tourism, or technology.

     4. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the KRI: Trends and Future Prospects

          — What attracts or discourages international investors?

B. Infrastructure and Public Policy Topics

     1. Improving Infrastructure in the KRI: Key Projects and Their Economic Impact

          — Roads, electricity, and digital connectivity.

     2. The Role of Public Institutions in Promoting Economic Growth

          — How effective are government policies in supporting businesses?

     3. Corruption and Its Effects on Economic Development in the KRI

          — Can governance reforms boost prosperity?

C. Social and Human Development Topics

     1. Youth Unemployment in the KRI: Causes and Possible Solutions

          — How can education and job markets better align?

     2. The Role of Women in Kurdistan’s Economic Development

          — Barriers to female workforce participation and entrepreneurship.100

     3. Education and Skill Development for a Stronger KRI Economy

          — Does the current education system meet labor market needs?

D. Technology and Innovation Topics

     1. Can the KRI Become a Hub for Startups and Innovation?

          — Assessing the potential for a tech-driven economy.

     2. Digital Transformation in the KRI: Challenges and Opportunities

          — E-commerce, fintech, and remote work potential.

     3. Renewable Energy in the KRI: A Path to Sustainable Development?

          — Solar, wind, and hydro power prospects.

E. Global and Regional Perspectives

     1. The KRI’s Economic Relations with the rest of Iraq and the Neighboring Countries (Turkey, Iran)

          — Trade, security, and cross-border investments.

     2. The Impact of International Aid and NGOs on Kurdistan’s Development

          — Do foreign assistance programs create dependency or growth?

4. Guidelines

     — Originality and Rigor: Submission must present original thought through research and insightful analysis.

     — Length: 1,500–2,000 words.

     — Language: Essays must be written in fluent academic English

     — Citations and Integrity: All sources must be properly cited in APA format; plagiarism or AI-generated content will result in disqualification

     — Formatting: Times New Roman, 12pt font, double-spaced.

5. Deadline

     August 1st, 2025 (Submissions received after this date will not be considered)

6. Awards and Recognition:

     Valuable prizes will be awarded to the top 6 winners:

          1st Prize: 1000 USD (One Winner)

          2nd Prize: 750 USD (Two Winners)

          3rd Price: 500 USD (Three Winners)

Winning essays may also be featured in Kurdistan Chronicle or other partner publications.  

7. Submission Process

     — Send your essay to [[email protected]] with the subject line "Kurda Award For Economics Essay Submission – [Your full Name]."

Include the following in your email:  

     — Full legal name (as per passport)  

     — University, faculty, and department  

     — Active contact information (phone number, email, and mailing address)  

8. Evaluation Criteria

     Essays will be evaluated based on:

          — Depth of Insights: Critical engagement with economic issues.

          — Clarity and Cohesion: Logical structure and compelling argumentation. 

          — Innovation: Originality of ideas and proposed solutions

          — Relevance: Direct applicability to Kurdistan’s economic landscape.

          — Academic Rigor: Quality of research and proposer sourcing

          — Precision: Factual accuracy and analytical soundness.

We encourage all university undergraduate students to participate and share their vision for the future of the Kurdistan Region’s economy. This competition is a great opportunity to showcase your academic skills, engage with important issues, and win valuable prizes!