Many students and even adults in Uganda struggle to express their thoughts clearly and confidently, especially in important situations like job interviews. This problem, where people know a lot but can’t always share it effectively, is largely due to a lack of opportunities to practice structured communication, particularly through debates.
According to Obua Patrick, who leads the Afro-Junior Schools Championship, the core issue is a weak foundation in critical thinking and communication skills. He believes that getting involved in debates from a young age is a powerful way to fix this. Debate isn’t just about arguing; it teaches young people how to organize their ideas, speak clearly, and discuss important topics affecting their communities in a positive way. It helps them develop crucial life skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, creativity, and public speaking.
His organization uses a globally recognized debate format to equip primary school children with these vital abilities. Starting with just four schools in 2022, the initiative has quickly grown, now training teachers across many districts who then guide their students. Despite minor attendance issues at a recent local competition due to other events, there is strong hope for increased participation in the upcoming national championship in August.
This championship, held under the inspiring theme “Empowering Young Minds for Sustainable Development,” includes debates, poetry, and public speaking, with plans to introduce innovation contests next year.
Obua urges schools and everyone involved in education to wholeheartedly embrace debate. He believes it is a vital tool for raising confident, problem-solving citizens who are much better prepared to contribute to the growth and development of the nation.