The Economics Association of Malawi (ECAMA) is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Students’ Essay Writing Competition, a flagship initiative designed to inspire and engage young economists in policy dialogue.

This year’s competition under the theme "Breaking the Cycle:  Redesigning Malawi’s Economic Future" attracted submissions from students across Malawi’s universities, all eager to share their perspectives on key economic issues shaping the nation’s development. The competition provided a platform for students to showcase their analytical abilities, creativity, and understanding of contemporary economic challenges and suggest practical and forward looking solutions.

After the assessment process, three  students emerged as the top winners:

1st Place: James Lukali — Malawi Assemblies of God University
2nd Place: Deborah Mwale — University of Malawi
3rd Place: Abel Mkandawire — University of Malawi

Their essays demonstrated exceptional insight, originality, and clarity of thought, addressing the competition theme with depth and innovation. Through their submissions, these young thinkers proposed practical solutions to economic issues, reflecting a deep understanding of Malawi’s policy environment and development aspirations.

In recognizing these winners, ECAMA celebrates not only individual excellence but also the growing spirit of  research among Malawi’s youth. The competition shows ECAMA’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of economists, policymakers, and thought leaders who will drive the country’s socio-economic transformation.

ECAMA extends heartfelt appreciation to all students who participated in the competition. Your enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity embody the Association’s mission to promote evidence-based economic decision-making in Malawi.

Congratulations to the winners once again.