Applications open for 2017/2018 essay writing competition

Students in local secondary schools and colleges, as well as academics and young professionals from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), are being invited by the Department of Foreign Policy and Research in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Commerce to participate in the 2017/2018 Essay Writing Competition. There are two groups for competition: Group 1 (Ages 15 – 20 years) and Group 2 (Ages 21 – 30 years).

In Group 1, the topic is: “The opening of the Argyle International Airport will provide Saint Vincent and the Grenadines air access to new international markets. In what ways can the new international airport facilitate increased foreign investment and aid in diversifying our trade portfolio?” Participants in Group 2 will discuss the topic “As of January 2017, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines began a three-year term on the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC); additionally, this country is bidding for a seat on the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member. How is it beneficial for a small country like this to serve on these international committees?”

The top three in Group 1 will receive $500, $300 and $250, respectively, as well as trophies. In Group 2, the top three participants will receive $500, $400 and $250, respectively, along with trophies. Digicel SVG will provide Samsung smartphones to the first place winners in both categories and to the second place winner in Group 1.

The deadline for applications is April 13, 2018 at 5 p.m.

For further details and guidelines, interested persons should visit the following website: http://foreign.gov.vc/foreign/index.php/news/374-2017-2018-school-visits-program-and-essay-competition, visit the Ministry’s Facebook Page “Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Commerce”, or call the Ministry at 784-456-2060.