Participants pose for a group photo at the final round and award ceremony of the 18th Youth National Education Competition in Macao, south China, April 30, 2026. (Xinhua/Cheong Kam Ka)

MACAO, April 30 (Xinhua) -- The final round and award ceremony of the 18th Youth National Education Competition was held on Thursday in China's Macao Special Administrative Region.

According to the National Conditions Education Association (Macao), the organizer, the contest attracted participants from 27 secondary schools and nine higher education institutions, with over 16,000 young people taking part, marking a record high in participation.

Hou Kong Middle School, Kao Yip Middle School, and the Macao University of Tourism took the top prizes in the two secondary school categories and the university category, respectively.

The organizer said this year's event aims to help students better understand China's strategies and achievements in river management and ecological conservation, as well as the cultural heritage and contemporary significance of the Yellow River and Yangtze River. ■

This photo taken on April 30, 2026 shows a scene during the final round of the 18th Youth National Education Competition in Macao, south China. (Xinhua/Cheong Kam Ka)