Zim school shines at Pan African debate competition

Remember Deketeke-Herald Correspondent

Mother Patrick Convent Primary School (MPCS) raised the Zimbabwean flag high at the Pan-African debate and public speaking competitions held in Kenya this week.

The competitions were an initiative of a non-profit organisation called Primary Schools Debate Challenge (PriDC) aimed at educating children in Africa about child abuse and early child marriages. Such debates are expected to promote critical thinking, effective communication and diverse perspectives in students.

Mother Patrick Convent Primary School scooped first position in public speaking and second position in debate at the regional competitions held in Beira, Mozambique, qualifying them to represent the southern region at the Kenya competitions. The team went to Kenya on November 25 and participated in the competitions. The school’s traditional dance team and teachers welcomed the triumphant team at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport yesterday.

Head of Mother Patrick Convent Primary School, Ms Tendai Kagurabadza, said the competition was there to educate young people.

“The issues they discussed raised awareness on children’s rights and social issues that are taking place in Africa,” she said

Ms Kagurabadza said she was proud that the team raised the flag of Zimbabwe individually and collectively.

“In the public speaking relay, they took first position with Kunashe Mukura, Kim Chiroba and Kupakwashe Bhadharai playing a pivotal role in the win,” she said. “They took second position in debate with Tanatswa Musengeyi, Kunashe Mukura, Takudzwa Musengeyi and Tafara Muzamani, performing well.

“Girls were fully represented and one of them managed to scoop position two in the individual public speaking and her name is Tanatswa Musengeyi. While the other girl, Mudisi Mavhunga, gave her all and took position five in the individual public speaking.” 

Kunashe Makura said her participation went well, but it was challenging.

“But I managed to win awards and prizes at the end of the day,” he said.