MEF Essay Competition – International Day of Education

Serving as a judge for an essay competition organized by the Meireer Education Foundation (MEF) in commemoration of the International Day of Education was a truly rewarding experience.

Reading the essays submitted by middle and high school students was inspiring. It was encouraging to see young people engage deeply with important ideas, articulate their perspectives, and reflect on the role education plays in shaping our societies. This opportunity was also personally meaningful, bringing back memories of my own journey as a student participating in local and international essay competitions and scholarship programs, experiences that ultimately helped me secure scholarships worth over $150,000 part of which funded graduate studies across two countries. 

Moments like these reinforced a lesson I learned early on – a single essay, application, or opportunity can change the trajectory of your life. You just need to put forth your best effort by doing the work. Opportunities like this also reaffirm my personal belief that education is not only about acquiring knowledge. It is about cultivating curiosity, strengthening critical thinking, and empowering people to confidently share their ideas and perspectives. 

Each of us, whether as mentors, leaders, teachers, community builders, guidance counselors, or parents, have a role to play in creating spaces where young people can think critically, express themselves, and develop the skills needed to shape the future. Supporting initiatives that expand access to quality education, mentorship, and leadership opportunities is essential and must be sustained. Platforms like MEF help emerging voices think boldly about the future and contribute meaningfully to it.

I am grateful to MEF for the opportunity to be part of this initiative, and it was a pleasure serving alongside my fellow judges. Thank you for your insightful contributions, teamwork, and collaboration. Congratulations to all the students who took the time to reflect, write, and share their ideas. It takes courage to put your thoughts on paper and submit them for evaluation.

Congratulations to all the students who took the time to reflect, write, and share their ideas. It takes courage to put your thoughts on paper and submit them for evaluation.

To every young person out there, let this be a reminder to pursue opportunities that challenge and stretch you. The outcome may be uncertain, but the act of trying matters. You never know what doors may open until you take that first step.