top of page

2025 UNESCO ICM Martial Arts Education Prize: Call for Nominations Is Open!

  • Writer: Shrikanth Gowda
    Shrikanth Gowda
  • May 11
  • 2 min read
UNESCO

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
  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. How much is the prize money?

The winner receives a USD 10,000 cash prize along with a certificate from UNESCO ICM.

  1. Where can Indian applicants send their nomination forms?

To the Ministry of Education’s INCCU office by 31st May 2025. (See contact details above)



 
 
 
Never Miss a Post. Subscribe Now!

Thanks for submitting!

bottom of page