Baobab scoops primary schools debating contest

THE Contemporary Affairs Foundation (Caf) in partnership with the Matabeleland North Province National Association of Primary School Heads (Naph) held a Primary Schools Debating Championship pitting schools from seven districts in the province.

The competition was held at Nhlambabaloyi Primary School in Umguza District on Friday where Baobab Primary School from Hwange came first in the debate competition. In the Spelling Bee Category, Nathaniah Ndlovu from Baobab Primary School came first, while Gemimah Dube from Mtshibini Primary School in Lupane was first runner-up and Mandy Masotsha (Baobab Primary School) came third.

In the Public Speaking Category, Leticia Madzima from Dimpamiwa Primary School in Nkayi came first while Mercy Ngwenya from Nhlambabaloyi Primary School in Umguza and Carla Miga from Mtshibini Primary School were second and third respectively.

Participating schools were drawn from Lupane, Umguza, Hwange, Nkayi, Tsholotsho, Bubi and Binga.

The competition was launched in the province in 2015. This year’s Public Speaking theme was “The Power of Imagination” and the topic for the provincial finals was “The ability to create works of art that express something deep about the meaning of life”. The Debate Theme was “Children’s Rights” and the Provincial motion was “This House believes children should have legal obligations towards parents after childhood”.

Caf programmes officer: Competitions and Communication Mrs Talent Ndlovu, said the organisation was not only encouraging pupils to sharpen their skills but building future leaders.

“We are grateful to the support from the Matabeleland North provincial leadership, district education officers, Naph district chairs and district heads in charge debate and all heads of schools who continue to support this programme.

The high level of participation and competition at the provincial finals is sure testimony that schools and pupils have seen the vast benefits of the programme,” said Mrs Ndlovu.