MUGABE R
Students in Rukungiri District are being urged to embrace debate as a key tool for sharpening decision-making skills, boosting confidence, and enhancing opportunities for personal and academic growth.
The call was made yesterday by Rev. Ivan Mwongera, Head Teacher of Kashenyi Secondary School in Ruhinda Sub County, while officiating at the Rukungiri District Secondary Schools Debate Tournament held at St. Gerald’s Secondary School Nyakibale in Southern Division, Rukungiri Municipality.
The competition drew 28 secondary schools from across the district. Immaculate Heart Girls Nyakibale emerged victorious, defeating hosts Kashenyi Secondary School for the second consecutive time in the finals.
Rev. Mwongera encouraged head teachers to fully implement the debate policy recently introduced by the Ministry of Education and Sports (MOES), aimed at improving communication skills and enhancing the delivery of the new curriculum. He emphasized that prioritizing debate equips students with sharp thinking, quick decision-making abilities, and the confidence to engage publicly.
Erick Sabiiti, Debate Chairperson of the Rukungiri District Association of Head Teachers Union (ASHU) and Head Teacher of Rwabukoba Secondary School, praised school leaders for embracing the policy and congratulated the district for shining both nationally and internationally in debate competitions.
Meanwhile, the District Debate Coordinator and teacher at Kashenyi Secondary School, Robert Byamukama, expressed his passion for debate, noting its role in motivating students to excel in exams and fostering healthy competition.
Students themselves also highlighted the benefits of debate. Obvious Atebembire from Rwabukoba Secondary School and Agnes Akampa from Kashenyi Secondary School said the activity develops critical thinking, research skills, and confidence on stage, helping to prevent stage fright.
The tournament once again underscored debate as a cornerstone for student development in Rukungiri District, with schools increasingly embracing it as a pathway to academic and personal success.
