HÀ NỘI - The ESPIC public speaking contest final was held on Sunday, promoting solutions for the growing concern of children's safety online. 

The event was organised by the Justice for Children Club, under the Hanoi Law University Youth Union. The Club was founded with the goal of connecting like-minded young people, enhancing their access to justice, and protecting children's rights and interests.

Internet use among children has grown rapidly in recent years, especially since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The proliferation of smartphone use makes it easy for children to access content on a variety of platforms. Some bad actors are taking advantage of children's naivety and exploiting their curiosity for profit, targeting them with content that is inappropriate for their age group.

Students who entered the public speaking contest felt the need to protect children when they are browsing online. Attendees were taught the best practices for safeguarding their own kids from harmful content. The contest made a valuable contribution to raising public awareness on this potent issue.

The best contestants entered the final round on Sunday. VNS Photo Tường Vân

Contestant Vũ Như Quỳnh, a student at the National Economics University, said: "I was quite nervous when I participated in the contest because the contestants had very strong arguments and examples. But I believe this is a great opportunity to take to the stage and challenge myself."

Founded in 2019, The Justice for Children Club is a non-profit organisation that upholds the spirit of volunteerism to build a future where children's rights and interests are fully protected.

The contest's organisation also serves as a platform for young people to develop soft skills. Students can also foster a community by participating in club activities.

A contestant performs at the public speaking contest.

The final round of the competition featured ten candidates and was divided into three parts. The participants took turns speaking in groups and individually in front of a panel of judges.

The panel was made up of experts in children's health and safety with extensive experience in debate and communication. Members of the panel have worked for the National Assembly Office, Vietnam Television (VTV), and other prominent organisations for many years.

Contestant Ninh Bảo Kỳ, a student at Hanoi Law University, earned the top prize after three rounds of the competition. On the issue of protecting children in cyberspace, he said: "The current usage of photographs of sobbing children to manipulate the media on social networks must be halted. The evils that tend to befall children are immense, necessitating prevention on the part of all persons and organisations in society."

Dr. Đào Lệ Thu, Director of the Center for Comparative Research on Public Law, under the Institute of Comparative Law said: “The candidates' reflexes were strong. This contest, which has numerous connotations, was effectively organised by the club. I hope the students can participate in many meaningful events like this one." - VNS