Vientiane: The Lao People's Revolutionary Youth Central Committee has launched a nationwide Lao poetry competition to celebrate the country's first National Mass Media Conference, encouraging young people and the wider public to showcase their creativity while promoting the role of media in national development.
According to Lao News Agency, the contest is being held under the theme 'Enhancing the Party's Leadership Role and Strongly Developing Mass Media Work Towards a New Level of Quality.' It is open to government officials, students, pupils, and members of the public across the country.
Organizers stated that participants must submit original Lao-language poems consisting of five to 15 verses, written in proper poetic form with correct grammar and the use of both internal and external rhymes. Entries should demonstrate creativity, present accurate information, and comply with national laws, regulations, and cultural values.
The competition is part of activities leading up to the First National Mass Media Conference, with the aim of fostering greater public engagement and highlighting the importance of media development in Laos.
Submissions are being accepted from June 15 to June 30, 2026, and winners will be announced on July 3, 2026, through the Facebook pages of Lao Youth Mass Media and Lao Youth Radio FM 90.0 MHz.
The contest offers a total prize money of 7 million kip. The first-place winner will receive 3 million kip and a certificate of recognition, while the first and second runners-up will receive 2 million kip and 1 million kip, respectively. Two consolation prizes worth 500,000 kip each will also be awarded.
Organizers are encouraging interested participants nationwide to submit their entries and contribute to celebrating the country's evolving media landscape through the art of poetry.