Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari
Youth Interactive Writer
Hillton Junior Kufahakurambwi, the head boy of Fordridge Senior School, has been making waves in the debate circuit with his impressive skills and persuasive speaking style.
Since joining the school’s debate team in January, the 19-year-old Hilltonian has proven himself to be a formidable debater, and his hard work has paid off in recent competitions.
In an interview, Kufahakurambwi said he is no stranger to leadership and public speaking.
“My passion for debate is what truly sets me apart. Since joining the school’s debate team in January, I have made a name for myself as a skilled and persuasive speaker,” he said. Hillton’s debate journey began with a Secta debate competition in Mutare, where his team placed 9th out of 45 teams from various schools in the region.
However, Hillton and his team didn’t let that setback discourage them. Instead, they continued to practice and hone their skills, and their hard work paid off in the second term.
At the New Horizons competition in Norton, Hillton’s team emerged victorious, with him being crowned the best speaker.
The momentum didn’t stop there, as they went on to win the HIDC competition at Samuel Centenary the very next day, with Hillton again taking the top speaker spot.
For Hillton, debate is more than just an extracurricular activity – it’s a lifestyle. “Debate for me isn’t just an activity, but it’s more like a lifestyle,” he says. “I’ve learnt to enjoy what I do, and I enjoy when I debate because I feel like I can change the world.”
This regional win has taken Hillton’s debate career to the next level, qualifying him to compete in an international debate competition in Kenya in December 2025.
Hillton is eager to take on this new challenge and represent his school and country on the global stage.
For Hillton, debate is more than just an extracurricular activity – it’s a lifestyle. “Debate for me isn’t just an activity, but it’s more like a lifestyle,” he says. “I’ve learnt to enjoy what I do, and I enjoy when I debate because I feel like I can change the world.”
Hillton’s dedication to the craft is an inspiration to his peers, and his achievements are a testament to the power of hard work and determination.
“Debates can encourage students to critically reflect on their ethical beliefs. What I can share with my fellow students is that debates are a valuable pedagogical tool to utilise in education.
“Participation in debates can encourage students to employ a deep approach to learning.”
With his passion for debate and his impressive track record, Kufahakurambwi said he is certainly a name to watch in the debate circuit.
