Bolgatanga: The Sawla Senior High School (SHS) in the Savannah Region has emerged victorious in the 2024/2025 national inter-schools debate contest organized by the Northern Debaters Forum (NorDeF), a Non-Governmental Organization.
According to Ghana News Agency, the debate took place in Bolgatanga on the topic: 'The fight against poverty in northern Ghana is a lost battle.' The contest featured Sawla SHS, Saint Francis of Assisi Girls SHS in Jirapa, Tamale, and Bolgatanga Girls SHS. Sawla SHS and Saint Francis of Assisi Girls argued against the topic, scoring 639 and 609 marks, respectively, securing the top two positions. Bolgatanga and Tamale Girls SHSs, supporting the motion, scored 605 and 595 marks, landing in third and fourth places.
Sawla SHS was awarded a plaque and medals, while the second and third schools received plaques. All participants received certificates and cash prizes, courtesy of the sponsorship by Kivo, a renowned Ghanaian food brand. Ms. Rekia Yaa Bravo Acheampong from Saint Francis of Assisi Girls and Master Zikirilahi Abdul-Kadiri from Sawla SHS were named best female and male debaters.
Mr. Tebon Zumah, Executive Director of NorDeF, addressed attendees, highlighting the organization's mission to promote public speaking among youth in secondary and tertiary institutions. He noted that this was NorDeF's inaugural national contest, beginning with a preliminary stage in June 2024 and culminating in the final event. Out of 42 invited schools, 22 from the Upper East, Northern, Upper West, and Savannah Regions participated.
Mr. Zumah explained that the contest spanned approximately 18 months due to logistical challenges, long breaks, and the 2024 general election. He mentioned that despite invitations, no schools from the North East Region participated due to tracking and examination issues. NorDeF's activities extend to debates, poetry, drama, and talent development, aiming to enhance public speaking skills across schools.
He emphasized the importance of public speaking skills, stating they build confidence and improve articulation. Mr. Zumah, also Director of the Tema Port, expressed gratitude to participating schools and commended the debaters for their dedication.
Dr. Aaron Issah Anafure, Guest of Honour and Finance and Insurance Expert, underscored the significance of public speaking skills across professions. He praised the debate's role in preparing students for the future and called for continued support for NorDeF's initiatives.
Mr. Razak Zongabon Abdul-Korah, Upper East Regional Director of the Ghana Education Service, praised the competition for boosting students' confidence and encouraged schools to replicate such events locally.
Master Abdul-Kadiri, the best male debater, expressed gratitude to his teachers and God for their victory. Students from Tamale Girls SHS, despite their loss, vowed to improve and return stronger in future contests.