The World Bank's Yerevan Office today announced the launch of an essay competition open to university students in Armenia.

The purpose of the competition is to raise awareness of and discussion on the development challenges the country faces. 

Essay topic:The Armenian village in the 21st century - Policies to upgrade life in rural areas

What do you think Armenia's main challenges are in agriculture, food production, rural economic development, and what are the solutions to improve the life of rural youth, restore cultural heritage, and develop community-based tourism?

Deadline for submissions is January 20, 2012. Send your essay either via email to [email protected], or submit it in a hard copy to the World Bank Yerevan Office at the following address: G. Lousavorich Street 9, Yerevan 0015.

The paper should focus on one development dimension of your choice, and should not exceed 4 pages. Participants are asked to include in your application package: a) a copy of your valid student ID, b) your name and age, c) the university and the program you are enrolled in and the year, d) your contact information (telephone number and email address).

All the essays will be reviewed by a selection panel comprised of the WB Armenia country office team experts. The best five essays will receive monetary awards from the World Bank Armenia.

For more information please contact Vigen Sargsyan/External Affairs Officer or Armine Grigoryan/Public Information Assistant at the World Bank Yerevan Office to +374(10) 52 09 92, or via e-mail to [email protected], [email protected].