The World Bank Thailand has announced a contest aimed at young leaders and aspiring youth with a passion for development. The contest provides an opportunity to experience the work of a World Bank economist firsthand and contribute towards addressing some of Thailand's most pressing challenges.
The World Bank Group, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2024, operates in every major area of development. With 189 member countries, staff from over 170 nations, and offices in more than 130 locations, it is a unique global partnership comprising five institutions. Their collective mission is to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity on a livable planet. The organization has had a long-standing partnership with Thailand spanning seven decades, working together to enhance social and economic development.
Participants in the contest stand to gain invaluable insights by spending a day with World Bank managers, economists, and development specialists. Winners will have the chance to participate in engagements with government officials and policymakers while contributing their perspectives to the flagship economic report. All winning submissions will be featured on the World Bank's website and social media channels.
Contest entries are open until Wednesday, June 5, 2024. Participants are required to submit a video not exceeding three minutes on the theme "Building Tomorrow: Unlocking the Economic Potential of Thailand’s Secondary Cities for the Youth." The selection criteria include creativity and content quality, presentation skills, and originality.
Thailand currently faces several challenges including slower per capita GDP growth compared to regional competitors like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia. With urbanization heavily focused on Bangkok, secondary cities have underutilized potential that could significantly contribute to growth. Contestants are encouraged to share their views on how these secondary cities can be made more attractive for living and what needs prioritizing for Thailand to reverse its slow growth trajectory.
Winners will spend a day at the World Bank on July 3 (TBC) during which selected videos will be showcased followed by an award ceremony at the launch of the Thailand Economic Monitor, the organization's flagship report.
The contest is open to all young people aged between 16 and 32 years, both Thai nationals and foreigners residing in Thailand. Participants are advised to keep their videos brief, between two to three minutes long, and no longer than three minutes.
For more information or any queries, interested parties can contact thailand@worldbank.org.