In this tenth year of the Columban Schools Competition, we are looking for students in Britain and Ireland (aged 13-18 inclusive, parental permission required) to submit an original piece of writing or an original image on the theme:
He highlighted the dignity and rights of the individual person, and the common good of all creation, in our age of rapid technological development, particularly AI.
Young people are invited to join Pope Leo in exploring how we respond to the challenges that this new technology brings to our world and how we live our lives in the light of our faith, the Gospel and Catholic Social Teaching. The encyclical reminds that working towards social justice is a key part of our faith: "For the Christian community, social justice is a concrete way of following Jesus and remaining faithful to the Gospel" #79.
Launch 15 October 2026.
Deadline for entries is 9 February 2027.
Announcement of winners on 23 March 2027.
Questions to consider:
Identify inspirational projects and communities.
How can young people be pilgrims of hope locally and more broadly?
See the following pages:
Inspirational Projects and Communities
If you have questions, see our Frequently Asked Questions or get in touch with us at hello@columbancompetition.com
