In a strategic effort to promote youth development and cultivate future leaders, Prince Kayode Oyetunde Bayewuwon Foundation launched its inaugural Debate Competition for public secondary schools across the Oyo Zone.
This initiative underscores the Foundation’s commitment to empowering young minds through platforms that foster intellectual engagement, critical thinking, and public speaking—skills essential for success in the modern world.
The competition commenced on Monday, September 30, 2024, and different public secondary schools throughout the Oyo zone were in attendance to participate.
Designed to challenge students, the competition will encourage them to articulate their ideas and engage in constructive debates, while also helping them to develop skills that extend well beyond the classroom.
The debate competition offers a unique opportunity for students to refine their reasoning, communication, and problem solving skills.
Participants engages in extensive research, collaborate with peers, and master the art of persuasion essential competencies for thriving in today’s complex environment.
This event is not merely a contest; it is envisioned as a transformative experience that instills confidence, fosters teamwork, and inspires a culture of academic excellence.
The competition unfolded in a tiered structure, beginning at the grassroots level within each local government area in the Oyo zone. Schools were competing against each other in preliminary rounds, with four outstanding schools advancing to the Oyo Zonal Finals.
This progression not only fosters school pride but also celebrates the diverse talents of students from various communities, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and mutual respect.
The grand finale, taking place on October 3, 2024, at Saint Bernard School in Oyo, promises to be an exhilarating event. The top three schools will not only earn the title of the best in the zone but will also receive significant cash prizes and educational materials aimed at further supporting their academic endeavors.
These rewards symbolize an investment in the participants’ futures, encouraging them to continue striving for excellence in their pursuits.