Online Reporter
Latwell Nyangu
Zimbabwe’s representatives emerged as the standout performers at the recently concluded 2025 SADC Primary Schools Debate Challenge (PriDC) competitions held in South Africa.
This prestigious event, organised by the Primary Schools Debate Challenge (PriDC), brought together 405 participants from five countries, including Mozambique, South Africa, Kenya and Botswana.
National Marwa, the director and convener of PriDC, said the competition featured 17 schools from Zimbabwe competing against competitive rivals.
“We are impressed by the performance of Team Zimbabwe.
“In the finals, the national debate champions, Lil Scholars Academy, faced Ruaraka Junior Academy from Kenya, ultimately securing the second prize in debate.
“Additionally, Sir John Kennedy Primary School from Kadoma won the top prize in public speaking, while Chivaraidze Primary School was awarded first place in the Model UN Simulation. Westview Primary School triumphed in the Relay Speeches category.”
Marwa emphasised the competition’s significance.
“This event cultivated a spirit of good sportsmanship among learners.”
He noted that the competition serves as an eye-opener, encouraging students to articulate their views on pressing societal issues such as drug abuse and early child marriages.
“Three schools from Zimbabwe qualified to advance to the Pan African Junior Schools Debate Competitions, set to take place in Kigali, Rwanda, from November 27 to 29.
“These schools were part of a larger national competition held in April, where 23 primary schools from all 10 provinces participated.
“The debate themes encourage learners to adopt the perspectives of their parents or community leaders, fostering a sense of responsibility and critical thinking.
“Through the various speeches and arguments raised by the learners, it is evident that children need a voice in policy formulation.
“They should be exposed to diverse situations to enhance their skills,” he added. Debate and public speaking competitions are integral to the educational landscape, teaching students to analyse and evaluate arguments effectively.
Studies indicate that engaging in debates equips learners with essential skills, including confidence, critical thinking, collaboration, and respect for peers.
These competencies not only benefit students academically but also enrich their personal and future professional lives.
Last year, five local primary schools were selected to participate in the Pan African Junior Schools Debate Competitions in Nairobi, Kenya, having qualified during the SADC Competitions held in Mozambique.
As the success of Zimbabwean schools continues to unfold on the debate stage, it is clear that these competitions play a vital role in shaping informed, articulate, and engaged future leaders.
