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MTSHABEZI and Gutu High schools made the southern region proud after scooping first prizes in the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) Schools Environmental Debate competition national finals held at Eveline High School on Friday.The competition saw Gutu High from Gutu in Masvingo and Mtshabezi High School from Umzingwane in Matabeleland South representing southern region battling with Kriste Mambo and St Faith High schools both from Rusape in Manicaland representing northern region on the topic “The solution to waste management challenges in urban areas lies in the privatisation of waste management” for the first prize.
Mtshabezi walked away with first prize on the affirmative side comprising a trophy and $500 while Gutu won first prize on the non- affirmative side of the same value.
Kriste Mambo and St Faith High schools came second and walked away with $200 and a certificate each for their schools.
Speaking during ceremony, Provincial Environmental manager for Bulawayo Mr Descent Ndlovu said the initiative was a success.
“The competition which started at district level has proved to be success. We would like to thank the Ministry of Education (Primary and Secondary Education) for supporting us and we hope children are going to use the information they acquired from this competition to assist communities,” said Mr Ndlovu.
He said the debate was an eye opener to both pupils and adults. “The pupils showed in-depth research and highlighted issues that I believe the local authorities will visit as they seek to improve waste management in their respective cities and towns,” he said.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs for Bulawayo Cde Nomthandazo Eunice Moyo commended EMA for continually engaging schools in environmental management.
“We thank EMA for creating this platform which allows pupils to broaden their knowledge in environmental issues in preparation for the competition. The debate competitions created a platform for our youth to grasp, criticise and have an in-depth understanding of updates and past global environmental management issues and this contributes to education for sustainable development,” said Cde Moyo.
Bulawayo Mayor Councillor Martin Moyo commended the Education Ministry saying their support was greatly appreciated.
“My greatest appreciation goes to the Ministry of Education for the support they have shown over the years by educating the nation through these debates. We also thank EMA for launching this programme because it has gone a long way in instilling environmental stewardship in pupils at a young age,” said Mr Moyo.
Online Reporter