The Washington Association for Chinese Education (WACE) launched a competition on Oct. 1 to increase “statewide awareness of Chinese language and culture.”

The winner will receive a grand prize of an iPad 2 or cash equivalent based upon their submission of written or video essays that “express their interest or knowledge of Chinese culture,” according to WACE.

Written submissions can be in the form of an essay, poem or song of 300-500 words. Video entries can consist of a song, poem, speech or another creative format. Entries must be in English and submitted online before Oct. 30 and address the question “Why should we learn Chinese?” The contest is open to students in middle and high school, according to WACE.

Those interested in participating can find out more at www.waceduation.weebly.com.

Gov. Christine Gregoire announced her support of this program in an Oct. 1 letter. “International trade plays a key role in the health of our state’s economy, and the ability to communicate effectively with our trading partners is absolutely essential for ensuring economic growth and remaining competitive in the global marketplace,” Gregoire wrote. “Building language capacity is a prime example of how we can retain our competitive edge, while positioning ourselves for continued growth.”

Winners will be announced online by Nov. 10, with the awards ceremony to be held 2 p.m. Nov. 19 at the Seattle Chinese Garden. There will be one grand prize winner, two runner-ups and three honorable mentions. All six winners are slated to receive cash awards ranging up to $500, along with an honorary plaque and an invitation to the Nov. 19 ceremony.