Program Stages (Phases)
Two Tracks: Schools Track (AJSC) runs in phases, while Community Track accepts open submissions. The VoiceBridge Creative Award runs in clear stages - so schools know what to send, judges know what to look for, and students know what they’re building toward.
Stages / Phases (Season Timeline)
VoiceBridge x AJSC Creative Arts runs in three clear phases, so every school or youth in the community knows what to submit, every student knows what to aim for, and every finalist earns their place by standards.
Judging criteria (judge-only)
Submissions are reviewed using standards, not hype. Judges score each area and make a combined decision.
Originality
Is the work truly original, or properly credited if inspired by existing work?
Emotional clarity
Does it communicate a clear feeling or message that connects with listeners?
Cultural authenticity
Does it represent the creator’s voice, language, and context with honesty and respect?
Performance & delivery
Voice control, timing, rhythm, articulation, and confidence - does it hold attention?
Readiness
Is it strong enough to advance to live stages, radio feature, or production support?
Copyright safety
Is it safe to broadcast and develop further without legal risk?
Schools Track (AJSC) also checks: time limit (max 2 minutes), clarity of recording, and consent completeness.
Phase 1 - School Submissions (Requirements)
Categories: Poetry / Singing
What schools should send
- Student Details (Mandatory): Full Name, School Name, Class & Age, Category (Poetry/Singing), Patron Contact (Phone & Email)
- Consent Form (Mandatory): Parental consent (signed & scanned) or School authorization (signed by Head Teacher or Patron)
Audio recording requirements
Poetry
- Clear voice (no background noise)
- Maximum 2 minutes
- Original poem or properly credited work
- English or local language (if local language, include English translation)
Singing
- Maximum 2 minutes
- Acapella or instrumental backing
- No vulgar/inappropriate content
- Clear sound quality (phone recording is OK if audible)
File format & naming
- Format: MP3 or WAV
- File name format: SchoolName_Category_StudentName.mp3
- Example: TruthPrimary_Poetry_AumaSarah.mp3
Tip: If you’re submitting in a local language, paste the English translation inside the submission form.
Phase 2 - Live Tournament Selection Stage
Purpose: to select the Top National Poetry Finalists and Top National Singing Finalists who will proceed to the Independent AJSC Creative Arts Grand Finale.
Judging Panel (4 members)
- Literature / Language Expert
- Music / Vocal Expert
- Chief Adjudicator (oversight & fairness)
- Additional credible judge (as needed)
Phase 3 - National Creative Arts Grand Finale
Purpose: crown overall champions in Poetry & Singing, showcase the best student talent in Uganda, position AJSC & VoiceBridge as promoters of talent, and attract sponsors and media.
Structure
- Finalists from Phase 2:
- Top 3 Poetry Finalists
- Top 3 Singing Finalists
Season timing
We run 3 seasons each year: Jan-Apr, May-Aug, and Sep-Dec. See the live countdown on the Home page.