In late 2025, more than 5,000 students from 150 classes in Lao Cai expressed their inner worlds through vibrant posters in the “Nurturing Positive Emotions” competition, initiated by the core student groups supported by Save the Children.
“Through colours and words, we had the chance to express our thoughts and feelings, learn to love ourselves, care for our friends, and spread kindness” shared one enthusiastic student participant.
The artworks were later displayed in classrooms, corridors, and school counselling rooms, serving as gentle daily reminders of the importance of caring for one’s emotional well-being.
The competition is part of a broader series of mental health communication initiatives led by the core student groups under the “I Support My Friends” model. Since 2023, the model has been implemented in 12 secondary schools in Lao Cai, reaching thousands of students and teachers. By establishing safe and child-friendly school counselling rooms and strengthening teachers’ skills in active listening and psychological first aid, Save the Children aims to foster a safe and friendly learning environment where every child feels heard, supported, and empowered to grow. This effort also contributes to the implementation of ‘Happy School’ model initiated by the Ministry of Education and Training and Vietnam National Education Union since 2019.
