[Latest News] AI Competition for Young People Kicks Off in Vietnam

On the morning of January 8, FPT University announced the launch of AI Young Guru, a national artificial intelligence competition designed for high school and vocational school students across Vietnam.

The contest, held under the auspices of the Ministry of Education and Training and the Ministry of Science and Technology, aims to encourage students to learn and apply AI in a structured, safe, and effective way, connecting their knowledge with real-world problems in study and daily life. AI Young Guru 2026 will run nationwide from January to April 2026. Participants may enter as individuals or in teams of up to three members, with each person allowed to register with only one team.

The competition offers a range of prizes, including cash rewards, material gifts, certificates, and scholarships from FPT University. The first-place prize is 100 million Vietnamese dong, followed by 50 million dong for second place and 30 million dong for third place. Additionally, organizers will award four consolation prizes of 15 million dong each and 22 “Promising” prizes worth 5 million dong each.

Organizers say the contest is designed to help students use AI to solve specific challenges in learning, work, and daily activities, thereby fostering innovative thinking, digital skills, and early career orientation.

At the launch event, Deputy Minister of Education and Training Pham Ngoc Thuong encouraged participants to compete with a spirit of learning, creativity, and integrity, seeing AI as a tool for exploring knowledge and developing personal capabilities.

Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Bui Hoang Phuong emphasized that the competition is not merely a school-level activity but a concrete step to turn AI ideas and theories into practical products that address everyday life. He highlighted the importance of safe and responsible AI use, reminding students to ensure that data used with AI is accurate and clean and to consider the social impacts of their creations.

Phuong also urged organizers to connect outstanding projects with agencies, organizations, and enterprises for real-world application. “Those who master AI will get ahead,” he said, expressing hope that AI Young Guru will help Vietnam’s youth embrace technology and build their future.