Both represented the Northern Province in a competition that attracted 40 schools – secondary schools and institutions of higher learning – in a series of fierce debates.
The debate was organised by Rwanda Inspiration Backup, a local organisation.
Sixteen year old Georgette Umunezero, a senior four science student at Sonrise High School, who emerged best debater, said that confidence and self-belief were the key.
“It has been a tough competition and I am grateful to everyone who helped me emerge the best. As a matter of fact, I was initially scared and wanted to pull out, but my teachers encouraged me to keep going. They helped me build my self-confidence, this is one value I have mastered here,” Umunezero said in an interview.
The Minister of Youth and ICT, Jean Philbert Nsengimana, asked students to focus on acquiring new knowledge and skills because the country was looking to them for a bright future.
“The country is looking to building a legacy of self reliance, a goal which the youth have a very vital role in. Before we look elsewhere for solutions to our challenges, we are going to be counting on you to improve on your skills, knowledge and understanding, so you can help your country move forward,” Nsengimana said.
“Such debate competitions are designed to sharpen your understanding of national and international affairs, and it’s through such platforms that your ideas and thoughts can be listened to by policy-makers.”
Prizes included iPads and shopping vouchers from one of the biggest retail stores, Nakumatt.
By Ivan R. Mugisha
No comments:
Post a Comment