Submissions are invited for UPU International Letter Writing Competition 2025 for Young People. The last date of submission is May 5.
About the Competition
The UPU is excited to announce the 54th edition of the International Letter-Writing Competition for Young People, taking place in 2025. This year, the UPU is partnering with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to inspire young writers worldwide to reflect on the importance of protecting our seas and oceans.
Since 1971, the UPU has encouraged young writers aged 9-15 to write letters on a given theme to win exciting prizes. The competition is an excellent way of making young people aware of the important role that postal services play in our societies. It develops their composition skills and ability to express their thoughts clearly. It also fosters enjoyment of letter writing and helps to strengthen the bonds of international friendship.
Every year, the UPU’s secretariat – the International Bureau – chooses and publicizes a theme. Participating countries then organize the competition at national level through the Post, often with the support of the educational authorities and media, presenting one winning letter to the international jury convened by the UPU. Entries must reach the UPU International Bureau no later than 5 May each year. The jury then evaluates the letters and selects the overall winners and candidates that merit a special mention.
Theme
Imagine you are the ocean. Write a letter to someone explaining why and how they should take good care of you.
This year’s theme addresses the significance of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and, specifically, SDG 14, which focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas and marine resources. Through collaboration with this year’s partners, the competition highlights the UPU’s mission to promote literacy and communication through letters, while aligning with the commitment of the IMO and UNESCO to address the urgent need to safeguard marine ecosystems. This year’s theme invites young participants to give voice to the ocean, exploring its beauty, the challenges it faces and our collective responsibility for preserving it.
By participating, young minds will be encouraged to reflect on their role in building a sustainable future, raising awareness of marine conservation and the interconnectedness of ecosystems worldwide.
Eligibility
It is open to participants for age 9-15 years.
How to Submit?
This centralized platform will be regularly updated with essential materials such as competition rules and entry forms and other visual assets including official logos, event branding and social media materials to support the successful organization of the competition.
Content and Form
Composition must be presented in the form of Letter.
Language
English or any language listed in the 8th schedule of the Constitution of India.
Prizes
At Circle Level:
- First Prize: Rs. 25,000/- and a certificate.
- Second Prize: Rs. 10,000/- and a certificate.
- Third Prize: Rs. Rs. 5,000/- and a certificate.
At National Level:
- First Prize: Rs. 50,000/- and a Certificate.
- Second Prize: Rs. 25,000/- and a Certificate.
- Third Prize: Rs. 10,000/- and a Certificate.
At International Level:
The Universal Postal Union shall select the award-winning entries. The winners will receive a special medal (gold for first prize, silver for second, and bronze for third) and a certificate, as well as other prizes to commemorate their win (such other prizes to be decided by the UPU). The gold medalist may also be offered a trip to the UPU headquarters in Bern, Switzerland, or an alternative prize to be decided at the sole discretion of the UPU. Writers awarded a special mention will also receive a certificate as well as other prizes (such other prizes to be decided by the UPU).
Contact
For any questions about the International Letter-Writing Competition for Young People, please contact the UPU team at Communication[@]upu.int.
