A contest to gain a better understanding of the millennium of Thang Long-Hanoi was launched in Hanoi on October 11 as part of activities to mark the capital’s 1,000th anniversary in 2010.

The launch ceremony attracted thousands of young people, students and pupils from universities, colleges and schools in Hanoi.

Contestants will have to answer 12 questions on the history of Thang Long-Hanoi and write a 1,000-word essay about their love for the capital.

All Vietnamese people from across the country and those living overseas as well as foreigners who are living and working in Vietnam can take part in the contest in two categories: individuals and groups. The group winner will receive VND20 million while the individual winner will get VND10 million. There will also be many other awards from VND1 million to VND10 million given out.

All the contest questions and regulations will be published in the Youth Union newspapers and several others. Deadline for entries is May 31, 2010 and the awards ceremony will be held in October 2010.