The Akinrin of Ekinrin Inter-School Debate Competition has officially commenced at Anglican Science Secondary School in Iyara, marking an exciting occasion for educational engagement in Ijumu local government area of Kogi state.
The debate competition is one of the exciting activities lined up for this year’s Akinrin Day.
Although St. Augustine Kabba and St. Monica Kabba were unable to attend, the remaining six schools showcased their debate skills.
Emmanuel International Iyara triumphed over Victory International School Ekinrin Adde, while Iyara Muslim High School emerged victorious against Community High School Ikoyi. Anglican Science Secondary School and CHS Iyara, despite facing no competition, demonstrated outstanding capabilities and secured their advancement to the next stage.
During the grand opening ceremony, Babajide Kolade Otitoju, the Director of Current Affairs at TVC News, emphasized the importance of critical thinking and civil discourse.
Represented by Comrade Aribido David Jayeoba, he described the competition as a celebration of intellectual discourse within the community and acknowledged the support of HRM Oba Johnson Kolade Otitoju, Egbo Lona I, the Akinrin of Ekinrin, for the event.
“Today marks a significant milestone for our educational journey,” he said.
The competition, scheduled to take place from May 26, 2025, to June 14, 2025, will involve participation from 16 selected schools across the local area. Participants will engage in debates on critical topics that address pressing societal issues, including:
- The government should be blamed for the declining standard of education in Nigeria.
- Computer-Based Testing (CBT) is not a good form of assessment in the country.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) poses a threat to humanity.
- Doctors have a greater impact on society than teachers.
Acording to Aribido, these topics were chosen to encourage deep thinking and meaningful discussions, providing students with the opportunity to express their views and refine their argumentative skills.
“As the competition progresses toward the grand finale on June 14, 2025, participants will have the chance to debate the crucial topic: ‘Doctors have a greater impact on society than teachers’. This topic promises to foster rich dialogue about the vital roles both professions play in shaping our communities,” he added.
