The event was organised at S350 Studio by Son La Newspaper and Radio-Television, in coordination with the provincial Department of Education and Training and the provincial Youth and Children Activity Centre.

Held for the first time in Son La, the contest aims to provide a healthy and rewarding artistic platform for students to showcase their musical talents, build confidence and develop their public performance skills. It also seeks to nurture patriotism and pride in the nation's cultural values among younger generations, in the lead-up to Vietnam Culture Day on November 24.

Addressing the opening ceremony of the semi-final round, Nguyen Truong Chinh, Director of Son La Newspaper and Radio-Television, and head of the organising committee, said the contest is not only an opportunity for students to demonstrate their talents and passion for music, but also a platform for exchange, learning and self-expression, while creating lasting memories of their school years.

Of the 72 contestants who participated in the online preliminary round, the organising committee selected 34 outstanding candidates for the semi-finals. Performances were assessed by the jury based on criteria including vocal ability, performance style, staging, costumes and props.

With thorough preparation, contestants presented a diverse range of performances, reflecting different musical selections and artistic styles. The songs mainly celebrated schools, teachers, their homeland, the nation, the Communist Party of Vietnam and President Ho Chi Minh, conveying the innocence, pride, love of life and aspirations of school-age children.

Each performance also offered contestants a memorable experience as they explored and nurtured their passion for the arts./.