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Valerie Mpundu
Youth Interactive Correspondent
Chivaraidze Primary School recently had an opportunity to participate in the Pan Africa Junior Schools Debate Challenge, competing against students from various schools across the continent.
From November 24 to 27, four learners travelled to Kenya, where they found the experience to be a significant learning curve.
They enjoyed interacting with peers, exchanging ideas, making friends, sampling different foods, and exploring diverse traditions and cultures.
The Herald on Saturday Lifestyle, Youth Interactive Section caught up with the learners after their trip, and they eagerly shared their experiences, including the topics they presented.
Many noted that while the competition was fierce, it was worth every moment.
Nenyasha Maphosa (11) spoke passionately about her presentation on the dangers of abuse, where she finished eighth out of 30 participants.
She expressed pride in raising awareness about these issues and encouraged children to speak up. “My topic was about a friend who was abused by her stepmother.
I aimed to highlight the dangers of child abuse and the importance of reporting it, no matter who the abuser is. “The experience in Kenya was beautiful and eye-opening. I want to share what I learned, educating others about Kenyan culture while also sharing our own traditions.
“I am thrilled to have placed in the top 10.
“The competition was challenging, but I am proud of my achievement. Next time, I plan to do even better,” she said.
Tanaye Nyika (10) described her experience as overwhelming, competing against 65 contestants. Her first topic was “The Importance of the Girl Child.”
“The girl child deserves protection and rights. As a girl, I should not be forced into early marriages; education is essential for us,” she asserted.
She advanced to the second round with her topic “How Can Society Help,” emphasising the need for improved infrastructure.
“I want to make a difference by developing poor infrastructure and enhancing previous ideas because times and technology are evolving.
“Development starts with us as children. We need to grow our nation as future leaders,” she explained. Mazvitaishe Mazingautswa (10), a standout in public speaking, presented on “The Honourable Minister of Education Has Come to Ban the Use of Information Communication and Technology in Our Schools,” defending the use of ICT.
“Meeting students from different backgrounds was both nerve-wrecking and delightful.
Travelling to a new environment was fun and educational. “I learnt various traditions, and I finished 6th in the competition.
I am proud to represent not just our school but our nation.
“I want to help build a better Zimbabwe and develop its infrastructure,” she stated.
Mufaroishe Jomaya (10) appreciated Kenya’s warm hospitality, finishing fourth out of 30 contestants while raising awareness about drug abuse through storytelling. “Travelling to Kenya was transformative.
From the moment I landed, I felt adventurous and excited as I explored a new environment.
“My story focused on a drug addict in our area, highlighting the dangers of addiction and its impact on our dreams as children.
I felt immense pride representing my school and my nation. “It was humbling to share my culture while learning from others.
I felt connected to my peers from different backgrounds,” she shared.
The team is eager to compete again and hopes to raise the national flag high should another opportunity arise.
Online Reporter