2026 Dr. Efosa Ekhoe-Omoragbon Creative Writing Competition

Deadline: April 29, 2026
12:00 AM (WAT)

1. Beyond Titles, What Truly Defines the Modern Dentist?

2. From Skill to Impact: How Dentists Can Shape the Future of Healthcare Beyond the Clinic

3. The Future of Dentistry in Nigeria: Are We Preparing for Innovation or Resisting It?

Eligibility Verification

Participants must provide an official document that verifies their BUDSA/Student status at submission, such as a Kofa Portal screenshot, Library ID, or School fee printout.

Word Count

Essays should be 1,000–1,200 words long (excluding title and references).

Formatting Requirements

• The text should be typed in a Times New Roman 12-point font
• The essay should be double-spaced
• Submit your essay as a Word document
• Essays must include the Topic Choice as a header
• Don't include your name in the essay submission draft
• The essay must be the entrant's own original work

Referencing Guidelines

• Use APA style for formatting all citations and reference lists
• Ensure that all sources are cited in-text and included in a reference list at the end of your essay. Entrants ensure that all information that is not their own work is properly cited
• For digital sources, include a URL

Artificial Intelligence

The use of AI is permitted, but only where employed responsibly and ethically to augment the entrant's own work and writing. A declaration of AI use is required on submission.

Judging Review

Essays will be screened for compliance with the technical requirements and reviewed using the broad criteria below:

• Understanding and Insight (20%) : Assesses how well the writer understands the chosen topic, showing depth, originality, and awareness of topic relevance.
• Argument and Analysis (30%) : Evaluates the logical strength, coherence, and evidence behind the essay's main arguments.
• Sentence Structure and Grammar (30%) : Considers how effectively the writer's sentences are constructed with varied structure and proper use of punctuation marks.
• Clarity of Expression and Structure (10%) : Measures how clearly and engagingly the essay communicates its ideas, including organisation, readability, and tone.
• Use of Sources and Integrity (10%) : Examines how responsibly evidence and references are used, and whether the work reflects academic honesty.

P.S: Winners will be featured on JAF's website and STOMA Magazine, offering further enrichment opportunities and the chance to build professional connections.