Description:

The Prize features four categories inspired by the Rightly Guided Caliphs:

• Umar ibn al-Khattab Prize for Leadership: Recognizing visionary young leaders and social innovators advancing social justice, inclusive development, and principled governance.

• Uthman ibn Affan Prize for Solidarity: Celebrating cultural, artistic, and community initiatives that strengthen unity, preserve heritage, and build meaningful social bonds.

• Ali ibn Abi Talib Prize for Knowledge: Honoring outstanding achievements in life sciences and social sciences that advance knowledge and scholarly contribution.

• Abu Bakr Siddiq Prize for Excellence – Premier Distinction: Recognizing individuals whose moral courage and principled leadership have created transformative and lasting impact.

In each category, one laureate will be selected by the Prize Jury, chaired by H.E. Necmeddin Bilal Erdogan, and will receive a medal, diploma, and monetary prize of USD 50,000. The laureates will be officially announced and honored at a ceremony during the World Youth Congress in Istanbul this November.

Given your university’s vibrant academic community and network of emerging leaders, we are confident that your institution may be home to exceptional candidates who embody the values and excellence recognized by the Prize. Please note that self-nominations are not permitted; candidates must be formally nominated by recognized academic institutions, governmental bodies, or other qualified nominators.

The deadline for submissions is 15 September 2026. Nominations can be submitted directly through the official portal: https://youthexcellenceprize.org/nominate-candidate/?utm_source=chatgpt.com