The Universal Postal Union (UPU) International Letter Writing Competition is an annual event organized by the Universal Postal Union, a specialized agency of the United Nations that coordinates postal policies and services worldwide. The competition aims to promote literacy, creativity, and international understanding among young people through the art of letter writing.
The UPU International Letter Writing Competition invites young people, typically between the ages of 9 and 15, from around the world to participate by writing a letter on a specific theme. Each year, the competition sets a theme that reflects important global issues, values, or challenges, encouraging participants to express their thoughts, ideas, and feelings through the written word.
Participants are required to write their letters by hand, following specific guidelines provided by the UPU, including the format, length, and content requirements. The letters are judged based on criteria such as creativity, originality, clarity of expression, and adherence to the theme.
National postal operators or designated organizations in participating countries coordinate the selection of entries and submit the best letters to the UPU for international judging. A panel of experts evaluates the entries and selects winners at the international level.
Winners of the UPU International Letter Writing Competition receive recognition and prizes, such as certificates, medals, and sometimes even educational scholarships. Their letters may also be published in postal magazines, on the UPU website, or in other media, showcasing their talent and creativity to a global audience.
Participation in the UPU International Letter Writing Competition provides young people with an opportunity to improve their writing skills, learn about different cultures and perspectives, and engage in meaningful dialogue on important global issues. It fosters a sense of connection and solidarity among young people from diverse backgrounds, promoting peace, understanding, and friendship across borders.
The UPU International Letter Writing Competition is a valuable initiative that harnesses the power of the written word to inspire and empower young people, fostering a love for writing, literacy, and international communication in the digital age.
Every year since 1971, the Universal Postal Union, the United Nations specialized agency for postal services, has held an International Letter Writing Competition for Young People. Millions of youths around the world have participated in the competition, practicing the valuable art of letter-writing by expressing their thoughts on topics and issues that concern the world at large.
Despite living in a digital age, learning how to express oneself properly through the written word is an ability that every young person should nurture to grow personally and prepare for the future. By participating in this competition, you help us advocate for goal four on “Quality Education” under the UN Sustainable Development Goals. For more information, please consult the following website: https://sdgs.un.org/goals
Theme: In 2024, participants will be encouraged to reflect on the future of the world under the theme: “At 150 years old, the UPU has served people around the world for more than eight generations. The world has changed enormously since then. Write a letter to future generations about the world you hope they inherit.”
Benefits
- The top three international prize-winners will receive a beautiful medal (gold, silver or bronze) bearing their name, or a certificate (honourable mentions).
- The UPU also arranges for the gold-medal winner a trip to attend a special awards ceremony at the UPU headquarters in Berne, Switzerland, in honour of their achievement. Transport and accommodation costs will be paid for the winner and the accompanying adult.
- The runners-up and national winners will generally receive their prize at ceremonies held in their home countries on World Post Day – 9 October – the anniversary of the founding of the UPU.
Requirements For The Universal Postal Union (UPU) International Letter Writing Competition
- Only young participants from 9 to 15 years may take part in the annual competition.
Selection Process
COMPETITION RULES
- Compositions must be in the form of a letter and contain the elements of a letter (heading, greeting, body, complimentary close, signature line and postscript (optional).
- Entries must adhere strictly to the theme and not exceed 800 words in the original language.
- Submitted letters must be accompanied by a cover letter, entry form and high quality picture of the winner.
Application Deadline: May 5, 2024.
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