Volunteers also presented books, notebooks, candy and white shirts to children there and guided them in traditional songs, dances and games.

***Also on the morning of May 28, the Central Highland province of Gia Lai opened its summer activities for 2011 under the theme of “Happy, healthy and safe-doing thousands of good deeds”, drawing the participation of 1,500 young people in the province.

Immediately after the opening ceremony, gifts were offered to handicapped children and orphans, and an environmental clean-up was held.

***On the same day, over 1,000 children in HCM City took part in the Red Scarf Festival 2011.

At the event, children joined in art performances, traditional games and exchanges with young reporters, and donated toys, books and newspapers to poor children.

The organising board awarded prizes for the “Beloved School” competition.

***In Ninh Thuan, the provincial People’s Committee launched an action month for children under the theme “For a safe, friendly and healthy environment for all children”.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee, Vo Dai, called for relevant departments and agencies to take part in protecting and looking after children through practical activities.

He also urged everyone to take care of orphans, disabled, HIV/AIDS-infected, and other disadvantaged children to help them integrate successfully into society.

Localities in Binh Thuan province also granted scholarships to outstanding children.

***In Hanoi, Phu Nu Thu Do (Capital Women) Newspaper launched a competition for children to write about their favourite books, aiming to encourage children to read more books, especially during the summer holiday.

Entries must be less than 1,500 words and should be sent to 72 Quan Su Street, Hanoi or emailed to baophunuthudo@gmail.com between June 1 and August 31, 2011.

An awards ceremony is scheduled for September 10, 2011.