Channel One TV and Citi FM have launched the 2026 edition of The Literacy Challenge, introducing a nationwide competition for young people to explore the opportunities and challenges of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Ghana’s education system.
The initiative, unveiled at a ceremony attended by students, teachers and parents, aims to promote literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, creativity and writing skills among children aged 11 to 15 across the country.
This year’s essay topic requires participants to write at least 600 words in a letter to the Minister of Education, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of AI in education and advising on how Ghana can integrate AI into basic schools while ensuring rural and underserved communities are not left behind.
Organisers say the competition, which traditionally targeted Junior High School students, has now been expanded to include all young people within the 11 to 15 age bracket to broaden participation and talent discovery.
The contest will take place in three stages: essay submissions, a written aptitude test for the top 100 contestants in Accra, and a final quiz stage involving the top 48 participants competing in groups of three.
Beyond academic rewards, the initiative is designed to identify and nurture young talent while strengthening writing, analytical and problem-solving skills. It also seeks to encourage parents and teachers to support co-curricular activities that enhance learning outcomes.
Head of Programmes Production at Channel One TV, Apiorkor Seyiram Ashong-Abbey, outlined the prize structure, noting that regional winners will receive cash prizes, trophies, medals and certificates, with additional awards for second and third-placed teams.
She explained that each member of the winning regional team will receive GH¢5,000, alongside trophies and other recognition items, while schools will benefit from national media exposure and enhanced academic reputation.
Organisers say the Literacy Challenge aligns with Ghana’s broader education goals by encouraging innovation, creativity and critical thinking among the next generation.
Interested participants have until July 20, 2026, to submit entries to P.O. Box GP 14123, Accra Central, or deliver them to the Channel One TV premises in Tesano, Accra.
Source: citinews
