The TSL International Student Competition 2026 invites students from all over the world to explore creatively about the theme “Sustainability Culture.” This international competition challenges youngsters to consider how culture affects sustainability and how sustainable values could, in turn, change the way societies are run.
The competition is open to students of all academic levels and nationalities. The competition promotes the expression of ideas through essays as well as music, art, or other media. The winners gain the recognition of an entire world and the opportunity to be part of the highly regarded international student debates, which will take place in July 2026 and will bring together young voices from all over the world.
Deadline: March 1, 2026
About the Competition
The Trust for Sustainable Living (TSL) established this annual competition to help students to be involved in global sustainability issues using imagination as well as critical thought. The competition focuses on the diversity of communication—permitting participants to share sophisticated concepts regarding the environment, society, and culture in a variety of ways.
The students are encouraged to share distinctive perspectives that connect sustainability, cultural innovation, and world citizenship. The entries can showcase real-world instances, traditions of culture, or community practices that encourage environmental stewardship as well as social responsibility.
Theme for 2026: “Sustainability Culture”
The theme for 2026 is “Sustainability Culture.” Students are encouraged to think about:
- The way that cultural beliefs and traditions can help inspire sustainable living.
- The importance of education, art, and technology in forming the environment.
- Ways to create a sustainability-oriented mindset across communities.
Participants can choose to concentrate on their culture of the region or discuss perspectives from a comparative perspective that connects diverse regions and practices.
Competition Categories
Submissions are accepted to four categories of creativity with the possibility of flexing to diverse interests and skills:
- essay writing Reflective or analytical essay (maximum 600 words).
- Graphic Arts Drawings: photographs, posters, and digital art (with 200 words of description).
- Music or audio entry podcasts, songs, or spoken-word works (up to three minutes).
- Videos or multimedia animations, documentaries, and short movies (up to three minutes).
Each submission must be unique, and if research is cited in the research, the bibliography should be provided. Participants using artificial intelligence-based instruments must acknowledge these tools appropriately in accordance with TSL’s citation guidelines.
Prizes and Recognition
The competition offers several levels of recognition:
| Award Type | Recognition |
|---|---|
| International Winners | Certificates and global recognition |
| Finalists | Certificates of Excellence |
| Teacher Champions | Official recognition for guidance and mentorship |
| Top Entrants | Invitation to International Student Debates (July 2026) |
The International Student Debates serve as a global stage for dialogue and innovation, allowing top entrants to discuss their ideas with peers, educators, and environmental leaders.
Eligibility Criteria
It is available to
- Students around the world in secondary, primary, or pre-university colleges.
- The entries must be submitted in the presence of a teacher champion who is a registered teacher.
- Students can participate individually and/or as part of the class project.
- Teachers can register their school and student organizations between September 7th, 2025, and March 1, 2026.
There is no cost for participation, which ensures accessibility to all.
Submission Guidelines
Students are able to submit their work using one of the accepted digital formats:
- Document formats include DOC, DOCX, or PDF.
- Image formats: JPG, PNG
- Audio formats: MP3
- Video formats: MP4
Technical Specifications
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Word Count (Essays) | 600 words |
| Maximum Duration (Video/Audio) | 3 minutes |
| Maximum File Size | 400 MB |
| Non-Written Entries | Include a 200-word project explanation |
| Optional Add-On | 150-word self-reflection on learning experience |
| Anonymity | No names or school identifiers inside files |
All entries must be uploaded anonymously through the official TSL Submittable portal.
Evaluation Criteria
Submissions will then be rated by an independent panel of judges in accordance with:
- understanding of topic The depth and significance in the sustainable message.
- Originality Innovative concepts and real perspectives.
- Creativity Expression of art design quality, design, and writing styles.
- Inspiring Value Motivational and emotional impact.
- Clear Communication Structure and organization in addition to presentational quality.
Key Dates and Timeline
| Activity | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Teacher Registration Opens | September 7, 2025 |
| Submission Deadline | March 1, 2026 |
| Judging Period | March – May 2026 |
| Winners Announced | June 2026 |
| International Student Debates | July 2026 |
Why It Matters for Nigeria and Africa
African students and students, including students from Nigeria, are enjoying greater participation in international competitions focusing on sustainability and innovation. Participation as a participant in the TSL International Student Competition TSL International Student Competition gives students from young Africans to:
- Present local sustainable initiatives and the traditional ecological wisdom.
- Get international recognition for your innovative environmental storytelling.
- Create professional and academic networks with international educators and colleagues.
- Build their credibility to be eligible for future scholarships and leadership programs.
This competition will empower the new generation of African thought leaders to impact global sustainability culture by bringing their ideas to life and collaborating.
How to Apply – Submission Process
- Teachers sign up online through using the TSL Submittable portal.
- Students create their submissions using the prescribed format.
- Make sure that every piece of content is authentic and correctly referenced.
- Submit before March 1, 2026.
- The results are awaited, as is a possible choice for International Student Debates.
Summary Table
| Competition Name | TSL International Student Competition 2026 |
|---|---|
| Theme | Sustainability Culture |
| Organizer | Trust for Sustainable Living (TSL) |
| Eligible Participants | Students worldwide (under teacher supervision) |
| Submission Deadline | March 1, 2026 |
| Submission Formats | Essay, Visual Art, Music, or Video |
| Prizes | Certificates, Global Recognition, Debate Invitation |
| File Size Limit | 400 MB |
| Participation Fee | None |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can enter the competition?
Any student from around the world can participate, regardless of nationality or academic background.
2. Is there an age limit?
Open to students in primary, secondary, or pre-university education levels.
3. How many entries can a student submit?
Each student may submit one entry in any chosen format.
4. Can I use AI tools for my essay or art?
Yes, but AI usage must be acknowledged in your references following TSL guidelines.
5. How will winners be selected?
Entries are judged based on creativity, originality, and clarity in addressing the theme.
6. Do participants receive certificates?
Yes. Winners, finalists, and Teacher Champions all receive certificates.
7. Are there cash prizes?
No. Recognition, certificates, and debate invitations are the primary rewards.
8. What is the maximum essay length?
Essays must not exceed 600 words.
9. When will the debates take place?
The International Student Debates will be held in July 2026.
10. Is there a participation cost?
No, the competition is completely free.
Conclusion
The TSL International Student Competition 2026 offers a stimulating platform for students to explore imagination, culture, and sustainability-focused thinking. By exploring the topic “Sustainability Culture,” students do not just build global awareness but also play a role in shaping the future of sustainability.
To Nigerian or African participants, it is a chance to share their local sustainability stories with a wider public and show the power of culture to drive positive changes to the environment.