The contest drew 223 participants from 54 primary and secondary schools in Quang Tri province. Students created their works using a variety of materials, such as pencils, gouache, crayons, oil paints, watercolors, markers, and other media. The artworks focused on themes including the beauty of Vietnam’s sea and islands, environmental protection, conservation of marine resources, and safeguarding national sovereignty.

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Opening ceremony of the “I Love My Homeland’s Sea and Islands” painting contest

Within 180 minutes, the students vividly expressed their ideas, creativity, and talent through diverse and imaginative artworks. Each painting conveyed meaningful messages of patriotism and love for the homeland and its seas and islands. Images of fishing boats heading offshore, peaceful green islands, and Coast Guard officers steadfastly protecting national sovereignty were portrayed through bright and expressive strokes.

Phan Hieu Cuong, Commanding Officer of Flotilla 202, emphasized, “The ‘I Love My Homeland’s Sea and Islands’ painting contest aims to educate and raise awareness among the younger generation of the position, role, and importance of Vietnam’s sea and islands, as well as the traditions, functions, and tasks of the coast guard. It serves as a practical source of inspiration to nurture patriotism, foster pride, and promote a sense of responsibility among students in protecting the environment, natural resources, and the sacred maritime sovereignty of the Fatherland.”

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Lieutenant Colonel Phan Hieu Cuong, Commanding Officer of Flotilla 202, and delegates observe students creating their paintings.

Nguyen The Hung, Director of the Quang Tri Provincial Youth Activities Center, noted that the contest helped enrich knowledge for both teachers and students about Vietnam’s sea and islands. He added that the submitted artworks not only demonstrated artistic talent, but also reflected sincere emotions and thoughtful perspectives of students toward the homeland and the image of Coast Guard officers safeguarding the nation at sea.

Student Nguyen Van Khoi Nguyen from Class 6A of Trieu Phuoc Secondary School shared, “I feel very happy and excited. The contest is meaningful for everyone, especially for young people like us. It provides valuable knowledge of sea and islands and of coast guard officers who protect fishermen and our country. It motivates us to study hard and follow in their footsteps to safeguard national sovereignty in the future.”

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A selected artwork depicting Coast Guard officers

According to the organizing committee, the award-winning artworks will be exhibited and presented on May 30, 2026. They will also be used for communication activities to further raise public awareness and spread messages of marine environmental protection.

Translated by Song Anh