2025 UNESCO ICM Martial Arts Education Prize: Call for Nominations Is Open!
- Shrikanth Gowda
- May 11
- 2 min read

Have you—or someone you know—been using martial arts as a powerful tool for education and social change? If yes, this is your chance to shine on the global stage. The UNESCO International Centre of Martial Arts (ICM), based in the Republic of Korea, has officially opened the nominations for the 2025 ICM Martial Arts Education Prize.
This isn’t just a prize—it’s a celebration of the extraordinary individuals and organizations transforming communities through the wisdom, discipline, and values of martial arts. And yes, the prize comes with a prestigious certificate and a cash reward of USD 10,000!
What Is the ICM Martial Arts Education Prize?
Launched in 2021, the ICM Martial Arts Education Prize recognizes individuals and organizations that have made a significant contribution to youth development, education, peace, and social cohesion through martial arts.
The core aim is simple yet powerful: to gather, support, and scale martial arts education best practices worldwide.
Key Objectives of the Prize
Promote values like discipline, respect, and non-violence
Encourage inclusive education through martial arts
Recognize efforts that integrate martial arts with social development
Inspire future generations to use martial arts as a tool for peace
Who Can Apply?
The prize is open to individuals, groups, or organizations—across the globe—who are actively engaging in social development through martial arts education.
You could be:
Helping youth overcome underprivileged circumstances through martial arts education;
Improving women's rights and enhancing women's social engagement through martial arts education for women;
Creating a safe environment in local communities through martial arts education activities;
Contributing to ensuring that the socially-underprivileged build self-reliance while overcoming hardships through martial arts education.
Important Dates & Deadlines
📅 Activity | ⏰ Deadline |
Call Opens | 18 April 2025 |
Final Deadline for International Submission | 19 June 2025 (15:00 KST) |
For Indian Applicants – Submission to Ministry of Education | 31 May 2025 |
Indian candidates forward applications to:
Ms. Madhu Bala Soni
Under Secretary to the Government of India
Ministry of Education
Room No. 203-A ‘C’ Wing, Shastri Bhavan, New Delhi - 110001
📧 Email: inc.edu@nic.in
📞 Phone: +91-011-2338 4442
How to Apply
To apply for the 2025 ICM Prize, visit the official site: 👉 www.icmprize.org
Past Winners: A Glimpse of Inspiration
In previous years, the prize has been awarded to changemakers who:
Introduced martial arts in conflict-affected zones
Used Aikido to build community resilience
Created adaptive martial arts programs for persons with disabilities
Each story is a testament to the transformative power of martial arts education.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the ICM Martial Arts Education Prize?
Anyone—individuals, martial arts schools, or organizations—using martial arts for educational or social impact.
Is the prize only for Asian martial arts?
No. All forms of martial arts from any part of the world are eligible, as long as they serve an educational or social purpose.
How much is the prize money?
The winner receives a USD 10,000 cash prize along with a certificate from UNESCO ICM.
Where can Indian applicants send their nomination forms?
To the Ministry of Education’s INCCU office by 31st May 2025. (See contact details above)