Explore thought-provoking questions across STEM, Philosophy, Theology, Political Science, Arts, and Business & Economics. Submit original essays and showcase your critical thinking, research, and writing skills.
Competition Categories
Participants may choose from the following academic disciplines:
STEM
Examine emerging technologies and complex scientific concepts through analytical and evidence-based arguments.
Philosophy
Explore ideas, language, meaning, and the deeper questions that shape human thought and understanding.
Theology
Investigate faith, belief systems, and their practical and anthropological implications.
Political Science
Analyze nationalism, representation, and the social and political forces shaping societies.
Arts
-
Reflect on creativity, originality, and the responsibilities artists hold within society.
Business & Economics
Evaluate contemporary economic challenges and propose practical solutions for an evolving world.
Competition Overview
Timeline
Registrations: Open Till August 15, 2026
Submission Deadline: August 15, 2026
Winners Announcement: September 1, 2026
Eligibility
Open to students in grade 9 and beyond, across GCC countries. Individual participation only. One entry per participant.
Overview
An academic writing competition designed to encourage critical thinking, research, and intellectual exploration across various domains.
Essay Questions
Philosophy
- Tell us about the positivity in negative space. How did silence guide you? Explain how silence may speak in ways that you did or did not intend.
- Tell us about a word that cannot be translated into English, it can be from your native tongue or otherwise. Why can its meaning not be understood within the context of the English language?
Theology
- Why is God gendered across various faiths? Use an anthropological lens to dissect.
- What are the practical implications of an atheistic worldview?
STEM
- What are the ethical implications when using generative AI?
- What are the complexities that surround infinity as a number? Do we need it?
Political Science
- Karl Marx once said, “They cannot represent themselves; they must be represented.” What does it mean when nations and people are often viewed through the lens of an outsider looking in?
- How do you distinguish between patriotism and nationalism?
Arts
- Artists across varying mediums can be described as conduits of the universe. What moral obligations must an artist hold?
- Is there such a thing as originality in art?
Business/Economics
- We’re moving towards a cashless society and lots of people are going to be left behind. What are some viable options to mitigate the negative effects of a cashless society?
- How has anti-immigration policies affected economic growth such as the Patriot Act?
Submission Guidelines
Format:
Essays must be submitted in PDF format.
Use MLA format.
Word Count: Up to 1500 words
Font: Times New Roman
Font Size: 12
File Naming Convention:
Submissions should follow the format:
FirstName-LastName-Category-QuestionNumber.pdf
Example:
John-Appleseed-STEM-2.pdf
Entry Rules:
One category and one question per participant.
Multiple submissions are not allowed.
Entries must demonstrate independent thought and strong argumentation.
Academic Integrity:
AI-generated content is strictly prohibited.
Plagiarism in any form will result in immediate disqualification.
Why Participate?
Develop Critical Thinking Skills
-
Challenge established ideas, reevaluate traditions, and explore alternative perspectives through thoughtful writing.
Strengthen Research and Analysis
- Build skills in argumentation, source evaluation, and persuasive communication.
Gain Academic Recognition
Showcase your intellectual curiosity through topics spanning STEM, Humanities, and the Arts.
Receive Expert Evaluation
-
Essays are assessed by a panel of judges based on knowledge, research quality, structure, and persuasive force.
Enhance Your Writing Ability
-
Refine your ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and depth.
Certificates & Awards
Win prestigious certificates of appreciation and academic achievement recognition from UniHawk Global
Judging Criteria & Evaluation
Understanding of Knowledge
- Demonstrate a strong grasp of the chosen topic and its broader implications.
Research Quality
Support arguments with valid sources and evidence.
Structure and Organization
Present ideas clearly with logical flow and coherence.
Persuasive Force
Develop compelling arguments while addressing counter-arguments effectively.
Analytical Thinking
Show originality, intellectual rigor, and the ability to challenge existing assumptions.
Competition Prizes
Winner
Prize: AED 3,000 off any UniHawk or Learning Lab Programme
1st & 2nd Runner-Up
- Featured on the UniHawk website
- Featured on social media platforms