A group of six Grade 11 pupils of Lowveld High School and Cyril Clarke Secondary School claimed victory in the 2024 Youth4SaferSA Debate Championship, representing Mpumalanga.
The debate finals, conducted by the Safer South Africa Foundation (SSAF), took place in Johannesburg on Saturday, September 7.
The pupils, Thoriso Skosana, Siphumelele Mazibuko, Shantel Mbebe and Nkanyiso Mjaji of Lowveld High and Junior Mungwambe and Virginia Mpandza of Cyril Clarke, impressed the judges with their powerful points on the topic ‘Government of National Unity: Reimagining the Future of South Africa.’ They received a cash prize of R9 000 and each a tablet, gold medal and trophy. The Western Cape and Eastern Cape teams took second and third places respectively.
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The Mpumalanga team leader, Thoriso, said winning this competition has improved their public speaking skills, teamwork and general knowledge.
“The topic forced us to learn about how governance works, understand policy challenges and think critically about solutions. These were things we did not know before. This is truly amazing. We are glad all the anxiety and sleepless nights were not in vain. When we got on stage to receive the award, we felt a mix of emotions, including the relief that this intense programme was finally over and excitement that we had won. We appreciate our parents for the support, the teachers, the foundation and our debating coach, Lot Chambale,” Thoriso said.
Altogether 244 pupils of 25 schools from eight provinces, all hailing from communities facing challenges like gangsterism, bullying, violence and substance abuse, participated in the debate. This competition offers a platform for the youth to develop crucial skills like leadership, problem-solving and communication, and also contributes to encourage literacy in South Africa.
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The SSAF’s CEO, General Riah Phiyega, hailed all the participants’ incredible courage and determination.
“The critical thinking, research and presentation skills they developed while preparing for the competition will undoubtedly serve them well academically and professionally. I am so proud of all these learners who participated in this closely contested competition. It shows that the youth can rise above their challenges and make their voices heard,” Phiyega said.
