The Vietnam Education Publishing House and the Vietnam Writers’ Association officially launched the nationwide writing contest “Books and School” on June 9 in Hanoi.
The contest is part of activities marking the 70th anniversary of the Vietnam Education Publishing House (June 1, 1957 – June 1, 2027) and serves as a tribute to generations of teachers, students, book creators, and others who have contributed to the development of education in Vietnam.

Nguyen Tien Thanh, Chairman of the Members’ Council and General Director of the Vietnam Education Publishing House, speaks at the event.
Open to all Vietnamese citizens at home and abroad, regardless of age, profession, or place of residence, the contest aims to honor schools, teachers, books, and the enduring values of Vietnamese education through memories, contemporary experiences, and future aspirations.
Organizers hope the competition will encourage a love of learning, promote reading culture, inspire educational innovation, and share meaningful stories about teachers, students, parents, education professionals, and those who quietly support the cause of education.
Entries will be accepted from June 9, 2026, to April 30, 2027, in three categories: short stories, poetry, and essays.

Delegates join the official launch ceremony of the writing contest.
Submissions are expected to reflect the values of truth, goodness, and beauty while offering fresh perspectives, creative expression, and vivid portrayals of school life across Vietnam.
Outstanding works will be considered for awards and may be edited and published in books or anthologies. The contest offers a Special Prize worth up to VND100 million ($3,800) for exceptional entries.
Nguyen Tien Thanh, Chairman of the Members’ Council and General Director of the Vietnam Education Publishing House, said the contest seeks authentic voices and personal stories about books and schools rather than formulaic writing.
As part of the program, writing camps are expected to be organized in northern and southern Vietnam to support selected authors in developing their entries and fostering literary exchange on educational themes.
Translated by DO HUONG
VNQD