Nelson Mandela University is empowering the next generation of tourism leaders through its official Student Essay Competition, supported by Africa Coastal Marine Tourism Trade Market, designed to spark innovative thinking around Africa’s coastal, marine, and maritime tourism economy.
Taking place as part of the 2026 programme in Gqeberha, the competition invites learners and students to contribute fresh ideas under the theme:
“Unlocking Africa’s Coastal, Marine and Maritime Tourism Economy.”
Who Can Participate?
The competition is strictly open to students and learners based in Gqeberha, across three categories:
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High School Learners
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TVET College Students
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University Students
This initiative creates an important platform for young minds to engage with real-world tourism challenges and opportunities within the Blue Economy.
Submission Requirements
Participants are required to:
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Write the essay in English
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Follow the official word count per category:
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High School Learners: 800 – 1000 words
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TVET Students: 1000 – 1500 words
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University Students: 1500 – 2000 words
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Submission Deadline:
📅 09 March 2026 at 17:00
Entries must be emailed to:
📧 tourism@mandela.ac.za
Winners to Be Announced at the Career Expo
A major highlight of the programme is that winners will be officially announced during the Career Expo on Friday, 20 March 2026.
The Career Expo forms a key pillar of the Trade Market, offering students direct exposure to:
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Tourism industry leaders
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Coastal and marine tourism businesses
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Hospitality brands
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Academic institutions
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Government stakeholders
This creates a powerful bridge between education and industry, giving young people practical insight into career pathways within coastal and marine tourism.
Building the Future of Africa’s Blue Economy
By launching this Student Essay Competition, the Africa Coastal Marine Tourism Trade Market 2026 demonstrates its commitment to youth development, academic engagement, and sustainable tourism growth.
The initiative aligns with broader conversations around:
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Coastal resilience
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Marine tourism sustainability
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Maritime economic development
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Inclusive tourism growth
Through platforms like the Career Expo and Student Essay Competition, the event ensures that young voices are not only heard — but celebrated.
The future of Africa’s coastal and marine tourism sector begins with its youth, and Gqeberha’s students now have the opportunity to be part of that journey. Students and Youth that want to attend the Career Day Expo can register for free at https://confspot.co.za/list/africa-coastal-marine-tourism-2026-career-day/
