Children in Viet Nam promote safe and efficient water use through art

The event was part of two projects funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) under its International Waters programme, implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and executed by IUCN. The two freshwater projects are “Fostering water and environmental security in the Neun - Ca and Ma rivers transboundary river basins and related coastal areas” and “Enhancing sustainability of the transboundary Cambodia – Mekong River Delta Aquifer” (CMDA).

The DWRM/MAE and UNICEF launched the painting contest “Initiatives for safe and efficient water use” from October through December 2025. The contest was for students aged from 6 to 15 to raise awareness among Vietnamese children about saving water, using it efficiently, and protecting water resources.  The contest attracted over 60,000 entries from approximately 300 primary and lower secondary schools nationwide. Notably, many submissions came from localities heavily affected by storms and floods such as Thai Nguyen and Gia Lai, reflecting students’ strong interest and engagement in clean water and water security issues.

The contest attracted not only a remarkable number of entries, but also an impressive diversity in quality, creativity, and forms of expression. Through vivid and imaginative artworks, students conveyed powerful messages on water conservation, resource protection, pollution reduction, and equitable access to clean water. Many submissions went beyond artistic merit, offering thoughtful and innovative ideas that can help inspire greater awareness of the shared responsibility to safeguard water resources - an essential foundation for life and sustainable development.

At the ceremony, Mr. Chau Tran Vinh, Director General of DWRM/MEA stated,  “Communications, education, and raising public awareness, especially among younger generations, are of critical importance. Therefore, this painting contest Initiatives for safe and efficient water use is not merely an extracurricular activity, but also a creative communications approach that enables students to engage with water resource issues through their own emotions, thinking, and sense of responsibility. Investing in education and raising awareness about water resources is also an investment in long-term national water security”. 

The event brought together nearly 2,000 participants, including representatives from government agencies, international organizations, water experts, award-winning individuals and groups, as well as students, teachers, and media representatives. Through the contest, the message on safe and efficient water use reached more than one million teachers, parents, and students nationwide, contributing to an increase in community awareness, especially among the young generation.

In addition to the award ceremony, the programme featured various activities for student engagement such as an exhibition of contest entries, a panel discussion titled “Children’s voices on water resources,” performances, and a “Golden Bell Challenge” quiz competition on water resource knowledge.

The event not only honoured outstanding artwork and creative ideas from young artists, but also strongly promoted the message of safe, economical, and efficient water use, contributing to raising community awareness about protecting this precious resource for today and future generations.