Axes
Children’s and Young Adult Books
Throughout history, the promotion of a culture of resistance and perseverance in the face of oppression has been a central mission of the world’s greatest leaders. Many nations and peoples have suffered under the weight of tyranny and exploitation, yet through steadfastness and resilience, they have broken free from the chains of injustice.
Today, there is a growing global awareness and sensitivity toward the injustices inflicted upon people across different corners of the world. However, awareness alone is not enough. What remains is a moral responsibility—borne by all societies—to stand against oppression and continue the fight until all manifestations of injustice are eradicated.
It is in this spirit that we invite educators, content creators, and cultural producers to submit the works they have designed and developed around these themes. Together, we can spark a meaningful cultural movement that empowers the next generation through education, storytelling, and purposeful learning tools.
Evaluation Criteria for Resistance-Themed Books
This criterion focuses on the author’s perspective and the specific aspect of resistance addressed in the book. It assesses how closely the theme aligns with the concept of resistance, the relevance of the content to the declared age group, and the depth of understanding the reader may gain. Topics such as historical movements of resistance, notable figures across different eras and countries, and concepts like courage, justice, and patriotism are considered essential. This dimension is evaluated with an emphasis on informational and thematic substance.
Narrative Structure and Literary Merit:
Each story is reviewed through the lens of children’s and young adult literature. The use of age-appropriate language and style, realistic and compelling character development (particularly the portrayal of heroes), and a coherent narrative structure—including engaging beginnings, well-developed conflict, and creative resolutions—are crucial. The ability to convey the story’s message implicitly, rather than through didactic exposition, is also valued.
Artistic and Visual Quality:
This criterion considers the book’s visual appeal, including illustration style and technique, coherence between imagery and textual content, and suitability for the target age group. Additional factors include the quality of graphic design, cover design, and page layout. Visual elements are evaluated for both artistic merit and effectiveness in supporting the narrative.
Educational and Transformative Impact:
This dimension explores whether the book inspires active engagement and practical application in the reader’s life. Does the narrative encourage reflection, dialogue, or personal action? Does it foster a meaningful educational process with potential for lasting influence? Here, the book is assessed through a developmental and value-driven lens.
If you’ve created a book that meets these standards, your work belongs at the Hanzala International Prize.
Activity-Based Educational Packages
Evaluation Criteria for Resistance-Themed Learning Materials
This section outlines key components for evaluating educational and learning packages designed around the theme of resistance. These criteria can guide the design and enhancement of such content for greater educational and transformative impact.
Content (Message and Concept)
Creativity and Innovation – Avoiding Sloganeering:
A fresh and original perspective on the theme of resistance is highly valued, particularly when the content steers clear of clichés and empty slogans. In a field often prone to repetitive narratives, an innovative approach distinguishes a package and enhances its effectiveness.
Relevance to Resistance Themes:
Does the package meaningfully engage with core concepts such as struggle, sacrifice, courage, justice, patriotism, defending values, or confronting oppression? The more these subthemes are integrated into the learning content, the richer and more impactful the educational experience becomes.
Age Appropriateness:
Are the concepts tailored to the cognitive and emotional capacity of the specified age group? Sensitive or complex themes must be adapted thoughtfully for younger audiences. Conversely, older youth may benefit from deeper and more layered content.
Format and Structure
Diversity of Formats and Approaches:
The package should employ a variety of engaging formats—artistic, literary, narrative, dramatic, or game-based—to appeal to a wider range of learning preferences and intelligences.
Integration of Contemporary Tools (e.g., AI, Digital Media):
Up-to-date approaches that resonate with current trends (e.g., digital storytelling, interactive apps, AI-enhanced activities) are encouraged to increase relevance and engagement, especially among digitally native learners.
Meaningful Connection Between Form and Content:
The chosen formats must reinforce the educational message. When the form aligns deeply with the content, learning becomes more immersive and effective.
Age-Appropriate Delivery Formats:
Certain tools or styles may seem overly simplistic or juvenile for older students. The design should match the interests and maturity level of the intended age group.
Flexibility and Adaptability:
Is the package feasible across different environments and resource levels? Materials should allow educators to adapt content based on local conditions and available tools.
Educational Impact
Coverage of Learning Domains (Cognition, Attitude, Behavior):
A complete learning experience must engage the learner’s intellectual understanding (cognition), emotional connection (attitude), and real-world action (behavior). Strong packages address all three dimensions.
Clear Structure and Pedagogical Flow:
Does the package follow a logical instructional sequence—introduction, core activity, reflection, and assessment? A well-structured flow mirrors a well-executed classroom session.
Transformative Potential:
Ultimately, has the package successfully supported a meaningful educational journey? This is assessed by the overall coherence of the package and its ability to foster real, positive change in the learner’s worldview and actions.
Strengthening the Spirit of Hope and Resistance—Not Fear and Despair
The most important educational outcome after addressing the theme of “resistance” for children and adolescents must be the reinforcement of hope, courage, and perseverance, while steering clear of fear and despair.
Submission of Educational Packages (Package Presentation Details)
Creative and Relevant Title
The title should be thoughtfully crafted, creative, and aligned with the content of the package.
Comprehensive Yet Clear and Concise
The audience should easily grasp where to begin and what the ultimate goal of the package is at a glance.
Accessible to All
The content should be understandable and usable by individuals regardless of their background knowledge or experience.
Up-to-Date
The use of modern and relevant formats and tools for presenting the package is encouraged.
Artistic and Innovative
The package must reflect creativity and a sense of artistic design in its structure and delivery.
If you have developed such a package, your place is at the Hanzala Prize.
Educational Platforms & Systems
Evaluation Criteria for Websites and Platforms in the Hanzala Festival
At the Hanzala Festival, we don’t judge platforms solely by appearance or popularity. Instead, we carefully evaluate how effectively each platform supports growth, security, and holistic development for children and adolescents. The evaluation will be carried out by experts with an educational and developmental perspective, favoring platforms that are value-centered and child-focused, not just visually appealing.
Evaluation Metrics
Each website or platform will be assessed in four core areas:
Content
Is the content age-appropriate?
Does it convey messages of hope, empathy, resilience, and social responsibility?
Is the teaching delivered through engaging, story-driven, and indirect methods, or is it dry and overly preachy?
Technical Features
Is the platform safe and user-friendly for children and teens?
Is the graphic design attractive and age-appropriate?
Does it ensure data privacy and provide mechanisms to filter inappropriate content?
Visual and Artistic Appeal
Is the design engaging and imaginative for children and teens?
Do the colors, characters, and visual storytelling elements support the platform’s educational mission?
Educational Impact
Does the platform go beyond mere entertainment to encourage thinking, family conversations, and positive real-life behaviors?
Scoring and Selection Process
Each criterion will be rated on a scale of 1 to 5 (from poor to excellent).
Certain criteria, such as psychological safety and age-appropriateness of content, carry higher weight in the overall score.
The final score for each platform will be calculated out of 100 points.
Only platforms that demonstrate high educational, technical, and artistic standards will be selected as outstanding entries.
If you’ve developed such a platform or digital educational tool, the Hanzala Prize is waiting for your contribution.
