From August 25th to 31st, 2024, Holy Cross Lake View Senior Secondary School, Wanyange, proudly hosted the Uganda National Students Association (UNSA) National Debate, Poetry, and Public Speech Championship. This historic event earned its place in the annals of African academic excellence as the largest debate tournament hosted by a single venue on the continent. With approximately 2,300 participants from 240 schools across Uganda, the championship not only set a record but also served as a powerful platform for youth engagement and empowerment.
The championship revolved around the theme,
“Amplifying the Voices of the Youth Towards Sustainable Development Goals,”
Emphasizing the crucial role of young people in addressing global challenges and shaping a better future. This theme aligned perfectly with the tournament’s objective of inspiring students to think critically, express themselves eloquently, and propose solutions to issues affecting their communities and the world.
Infrastructure that Inspired Excellence
The success of this monumental event was significantly attributed to Holy Cross Lake View SSS’s exceptional infrastructure. The school provided state-of-the-art facilities, including spacious debate rooms and comfortable accommodation for participants and officials. The well-organized logistics underscored the school’s dedication to academic excellence and youth empowerment.
A Parade of Distinguished Guests
The championship was graced by an array of dignitaries, highlighting its significance on both national and international levels. The Minister for Youth, Hon. Balam Balugahare Ateenyi, representing the President of Uganda, delivered an inspiring keynote address during the opening ceremony. The UNDP Country Resident Representative added an international perspective on the importance of youth-driven initiatives for sustainable development. Other notable guests included Brigadier Felix Kulayigye, UPDF spokesperson, and various leaders in education and youth advocacy.
Debate: A Catalyst for Transformative Growth
Throughout the week-long event, the transformative power of debate was evident. Participants engaged in intellectually stimulating discussions, showcasing critical thinking, creativity, and leadership. Debate, as highlighted during the championship, is a pivotal tool in fostering skills necessary for innovation and progress. Schools across Uganda are urged to adopt debate as an integral part of their educational programs, in alignment with the national curriculum, to foster holistic student development.
Holy Cross Lake View’s Stellar Performance
Holy Cross Lake View SSS demonstrated its commitment to excellence by participating in both the debate and public speech categories. The school emerged as quarterfinalists in both categories, securing a spot among the top eight schools in Uganda. This impressive performance reflected the dedication of the students, the guidance of the Debate Club patron, and the unwavering support of the school administration and staff.
A Legacy of Youth Empowerment
Participants expressed profound gratitude to Holy Cross Lake View SSS for the warm hospitality and conducive environment provided throughout the championship. The school’s ability to host an event of such magnitude while fostering a culture of academic and extracurricular excellence has cemented its reputation as a beacon of youth empowerment and leadership development.
As the tournament concluded, it was clear that Holy Cross Lake View SSS, Wanyange, had not only made history but also set a new benchmark for academic and extracurricular success in Uganda and beyond. By championing debate and public discourse, the school reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing future leaders who will drive sustainable development and innovation in their communities.