YUMMY Bakery in association with Royal Computers has launched a school essay competition.

Students will be asked to submit essays under the topic "Over the past 50 years who are the the most influential Jamaican citizens?"

The competition will run from this week to November 30 and the is expected to be between 3,000 to 4,000 words. There are no limits on entry amounts.

The organisers say that credits will be given to students who show a depth of research on the subject matter and who creatively present their findings.

"The essay must be properly structured with a clear introduction, body and conclusion. There should be full development of ideas, good organisation, clear expression and use of English," said Janice Lee, business development manager at Yummy about the criteria the essays will be judged on.

She explained that the essays must clearly express why the individuals were chosen and there must be evidence of research done on the individuals.

"In your discussion give at least four reasons why you chose these individuals. Your discussion must be developed with details relevant to the individuals' accomplishments and contribution to the development of Jamaica," she concluded.

The awards will be given for the best essay and runner-up in two categories, which are open to age groups eight to 12 and 13 to 18.

The prizes for both categories are Apple iPads and tablet computers. The schools with the winners will get a computer and a printer.