The event is jointly organized by the Youth Union of the Government Office, Vietnam Television, and Tan Viet Books, as part of a series of commemorative activities commemorating the 100th anniversary of Vietnam’s Revolutionary Press.
The opening ceremony brought together leaders and journalists from major media outlets in Hanoi, as well as over 200 young journalists and members from the Government Youth Union.
The event welcomes the participation of representatives from leading press agencies in Hanoi, along with youth union officials and young journalists from the Government Youth Union.
Recalling President Ho Chi Minh’s words, “Youth will be the masters of the country. To truly be a youth union member, one must constantly learn and progress”, Mr. Vu Huy Hoang, Deputy Secretary of the Government Youth Union, emphasized that this year’s festival theme, “Lifelong Learning – Taking Charge of the Future”, reflects and deepens that philosophy. According to him, the theme is not just a slogan, but a strategic solution in the digital era,empowering youth to shift from passive receivers to proactive creators and future leaders.
Mr. Vu Huy Hoang, Deputy Secretary of the Government Youth Union, delivers a speech at the event.
The Deputy Secretary of the Government Youth Union emphasized that: “This year’s book festival takes place at a symbolic venue—Vietnam Television—on a historic occasion. It is a meaningful intersection, affirming the important role of knowledge and culture in national development and defense”.
Right after the opening, the seminar “Young Journalists – Books and the Profession” attracted great interest. Journalists from two generations and publishing representatives came together to discuss the irreplaceable role of books and knowledge in shaping worldviews, values, and personal growth.
Seminar “Young Journalists – Books and the Profession”
Ms. Nguyen Thu Ha, Head of the Department of Science & Education Programs, VTV , stated: “Reading should come from a personal desire, not obligation. A strong reading environment and clear purpose are key to making reading meaningful and effective”.
From a publisher’s perspective, Ms. Nguyen Kim Thoa – CEO of Tan Viet Books – added: “It’s encouraging to see more Vietnamese visiting bookstores and buying books. Along with printed books, formats like audiobooks and e-books are also growing in popularity. Still, the overall reading rate in Vietnam remains modest. Instilling reading habits from a young age is vital, especially among the youth”.
The speakers also shared strategies for fostering a love of reading, such as “reading less but deeply”, and explored how media and young journalists can foster a stronger reading culture in today’s society.
A highlight of the festival was the charity activity “Donate Books, Build Dreams”, where participants could contribute old books to build youth libraries for people and children in remote areas.
On the first morning alone, over 1,200 books were donated. Among them, Tan Viet Books contributed 500 new books, while the Youth Unions of Kim Dong Publishing House and the National Political Publishing House donated an additional 400. The remaining books were obtained through individual contributions exchanged under the “old-for-new” program.
Organizers stated that all donated books will be delivered to remote communities by the start of the 2025–2026 school year.
Also on the same day, the “VTV in the Flow of Revolutionary Vietnamese Journalism” photo exhibition opened.
Opening Ceremony of the Photo Exhibition “VTV in the Flow of Revolutionary Vietnamese Journalism”
The exhibit showcased over 120 photos captured by VTV reporters and editors during their field assignments. These images reflect the dedication of those working in journalism and broadcasting, as well as the deep connection between the media and its audience. The exhibition runs through June 21, 2025.
During the two-day event (June 17–18), visitors can explore over 5,000 book titles across various genres and age groups. There are also booths displaying educational tools, creative toys for children, and free ice cream and drinks.
Books and educational products are discounted 10% to 50%, making the festival a great opportunity for readers to discover beloved titles, explore new works, and access valuable learning resources.
