As part of the collaborative STEM initiatives between JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research (JSSAHERM) and the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre (RGSC), a National Essay Competition is being organised to encourage young minds t o explore the transformative r ole o f Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Healthcare. The competition aims to foster scientific curiosity, critical thinking, innovation, and awareness of emerging technologies among secondary school students while promoting excellence in STEM education.
2. ELIGIBILTY
• Age Group: 16–18 years
• Students enrolled in secondary schools in Mauritius
3. COMPETITION GUIDELINES
• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
• Word Count: 1,500–2,000 words
• Language: English
• Font: Times New Roman
• Font Size: 12 pt
• Line Spacing: 1.5
• Submission Mode: Electronic submission only
• Submission Deadline: Thursday, 10 September 2026
4. ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
Entries will be evaluated by an expert panel based on the following criteria:
• Originality and creativity
• Scien tific ac curacy
• Critical thinking and anal ytical ability
• Relevance to the theme
• Clarity of expression and organisation of ideas
• Overall quality of writing and supporting evidence
5. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
• All submitted essays will undergo plagiarism screening.
• Essays containing plagiarised c ontent will be disqualified.
• Participants are expected to submit their original ideas.
• Proper acknowledgement and referencing of all sources consulted should be provided.
6. SHORTLISTING
The list of shortlisted participants will be announced on:
Tuesday, 15 September 2026 and will be notified via email and/or through their respective educational institutions.
7. PRESENTATION ROUND
Shortlisted participants will be invited to present their essays in the form of a PowerPoint presentation before an expert panel.
Date: Saturday, 19 September 2026
Venue: JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Bonne Terre, Vacoas, Mauritius
Further details regarding the presentation format, duration and schedule will be communicated to the shortlisted participants.
8. IMPORTANT DATES
Deadline for Registration 25 August 2026
Submission Deadline 10 September 2026
Announcement of Shortlisted Candidates 15 September 2026
PowerPoint Presentation & Final Judging 19 September 2026
Prize Distribution During the World Pharmacists
Celebration 2026 at JSSAHERM
9. ADDRESS FOR CORRESPONDENCE
Director
Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre,
Old Moka Road, Bell Village
Tel: 2132773, Fax: 2132726
Email: education@rgsctf.org Website: rgsc.govmu.org