The Science Without Borders(r) Challenge 2026 is now accepting applications. The contest is inviting young artists from all over the globe to showcase their talent while helping to spread awareness about marine conservation. Organized through the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation, the international art competition aims to inspire students into ocean research through art and education.
The theme for this year’s contest, “Microscopic Marine Life,” emphasizes the unnoticed organisms that maintain the balance of the ocean as well as the overall health of the planet. This is a great opportunity for Nigerian or African students who are interested in both environmental science and art. It’s a chance to take on the world stage as well as win scholarships and participate in global discussions about ocean protection and sustainability of the climate.
The deadline for submissions is March 2, 2026.
What Is the Science Without Borders® Challenge?
The Science Without Borders(r) Challenge is an annual international art contest created to encourage imagination and increase awareness of the importance of protecting and recovering the world’s oceans and the aquatic resources.
Since its start the contest has enthused thousands of students across more than 100 countries to create artwork to spread the message of educational programs for oceans, marine biodiversity, and ecologically sustainable ecosystems.
Every year, the contest includes a different theme for the environment, which allows participants to discover ideas in science through the use of art. The theme for 2026, “Microscopic Marine Life,” concentrates on small yet vital organisms like phytoplankton, zooplankton, protists, and bacteria, which form the base of marine ecosystems.
Funding and Award Details
The 2026 edition of the challenge offers cash prizes and recognition certificates to young artists worldwide.
| Award Category | Prize (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1st Place | $500 |
| 2nd Place | $350 |
| 3rd Place | $200 |
| People’s Choice Award | $50 (per age group) |
Each winner will receive a scholarship-style prize, and certificates of participation will be emailed to all eligible entrants after the results are announced.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility Criteria)
This competition will be open to students aged between 11 and 19 across all countries, including Nigeria as well as the other African nations. Participants must
- You must be currently enrolled in secondary or primary school or home school equivalent.
- Do not have to be enrolled in the university or college.
- Submit an original, drawn or painted by hand (two-dimensional).
- Make sure that all entries are in line with your entry’s 2026 topic: “Microscopic Marine Life.”
- Get the parental permission for children who are under 13 years old.
Submissions can be based on every aspect of microscopic marine life, including its contribution to marine ecosystems, its impact on climate change, or its contribution to biodiversity and balance in the environment.
How to Apply
Use these instructions to submit your application to this challenge. Research Without Borders (r) Challenge in 2026:
- Create your artwork
Make two-dimensional art (painting or sketching) depicting the microscopic marine life of the ocean and its significance for ocean health. - Complete the online entry form.
Go to the official website for the challenge and complete a submission questionnaire with your contact information and a description of your work. - Upload a photo of your artwork.
Send a clear, high-resolution photo of your work. Be sure that it’s in line with the specifications for size and format as listed on the official website. - Get Consent (If you are under 13 Years Old)
Students who are younger than 13 should include parents’ consent prior to submitting. - Make Submissions Before the Deadline All submitted materials must be uploaded on or before March 2nd, 2026. Semifinalists will be asked to submit their original artworks for final review.
Judging Criteria
Each entry will be reviewed by a committee of scientists, artists, and educators. The submissions will be evaluated on the basis of:
- Originality and artistic quality
- Conformity with the theme
- Understanding of the scientific basis for the microscopic marine life
- Emotional impact and creativity
- Use of artful elements such as composition, color, and form
The judges’ goal is to acknowledge both artistic talents andscientific knowledge, which makes it a great choice for students in the early stages of their studies who are fascinated by both the sciences of art and the environment.
Teacher and School Participation
It is encouraged for teachers to help your students in the procedure. The Foundation provides free educational resources, which include:
- Lesson plans for marine ecosystems
- Rubrics for Evaluation
- Handouts for the classroom and other activities
These resources can help incorporate it into schools’ curriculum and make it both an educational and artistic endeavor. Nigerian schools that are interested in international STEM involvement can utilize this competition to stimulate creativity and science-based learning in students.
Benefits for Nigerian and African Students
Participation in this challenge Science Without Borders Challenge allows students to:
- Get recognition internationally for your creative talents.
- Develop awareness about ocean conservation and sustainability of the environment.
- Earn cash prizes for scholarships for support with education.
- Increase the credibility of your portfolio to be able to submit university or grant applications.
- Represent Nigeria as well as Africa in an international art and science contest.
It also provides a means for the youngest African students to link their art with actual climate actions and help build the next generation of conservationists.
Key Grant Details
| Program Name | Science Without Borders® Challenge 2026 |
|---|---|
| Organizer | Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation |
| Theme | Microscopic Marine Life |
| Target Age Group | 11–19 years old |
| Eligible Regions | Global (including Africa and Nigeria) |
| Award Range | $50 – $500 |
| Submission Type | Hand-drawn or painted artwork |
| Deadline | March 2, 2026 |
| Participation Level | Individual students |
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Competition Launch | November 2025 |
| Application Deadline | March 2, 2026 |
| Results Announcement | June 2026 (expected) |
Conclusion
The Science Without Borders(r) Challenge 2026 gives young Nigerians or African students a unique chance to combine science, creativity, and activism. By examining the fascinating world of microscopic marine life with the help of artwork, participants do not just compete for prizes and recognition but also help in the global effort to preserve the oceans on our planet.
Schools, teachers, and parents are encouraged by the competition to assist students who are eligible to participate in the competition. By participating in this competition, young people can be the first to lead the way towards an environmentally sustainable and eco-friendly future.