The Japan-based Goi Peace Foundation and UNESCO have launched an international essay contest for young people.

This year's contest, with the theme Creating the Future We Want, aims to empower young people and enhance their long-lasting skills.

Essays can be submitted by anyone in one of two age categories: children aged up to 14 years old, and youth aged between 15 and 25.

Essays must be 800 words or less and be written in English, French, Spanish or German. For essays in Japanese, 1,600 characters or less, either typed or hand-written, will be accepted.

Essay submisions can be made via postal mail or online at www.goipeace.or.jp on or before June 30.

Essays must be original and unpublished and be written by one person only. Co-authored essays will not be accepted.

The first-prize winners will be invited to an awards ceremony in Tokyo scheduled in November, with travel expenses to be covered by the organisers.

All prize winners will be announced in November on the Goi Peace Foundation website and the official UNESCO website (www.unesco.org/youth). Certificates and gifts will be mailed to the winners in December.

The annual essay contest aims to harness the energy, imagination and initiative of the world's youth in promoting a culture of peace and sustainable development.

It is also a means to inspire society to learn from young minds and to think how each of us can make a difference in the world. 

Source: VNS