Vietnamese students between the ages of 18 and 22 are eligible to participate in the contest. Entrants are asked to submit a 1,000-word summary of their beliefs and hopes for the future of Vietnam.

The National Library, the Da Nang Library and HCM City’s Library will work together with the Asia Foundation in selecting a short list of nine finalists from the three regions of the country.

After an interview session, carried out by the foundation in Hanoi, the three winners will be announced. Those grand-prize winners will embark on a 10-day trip to the US to meet with young people and civic leaders. The other six candidates will be awarded a US$300 English course.

The programme aims to promote a better understanding of Vietnam and Vietnamese culture in the US as well as provide Vietnamese youth a glimpse into the modern-day US.