Minister calls for institutionalisation of debate in FCT public schools

Mahmoud made this call on Friday in Abuja at the grand finale of the Head-to-Head Debate Reality House 2024.

The debate on the theme “Poverty a Threat to the School Population” was organised by the FCT Universal Basic Education Board in collaboration with the FCT Reform Coordination and Service Improvement for Public Schools.

The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Secretariat for Agriculture and Rural Development, Grace Adayilosaid the debate would remind Nigerians of the power of conversation.

She added that a debate would also teach students the importance of understanding different points of view on a particular issue.

In their view, the debate is an important part of the students’ academic careers.

“Debate is much more than a competition; it is an art and a powerful tool for developing critical thinking, effective communication and a deep understanding of complex issues.

“It challenges participants and students to look at problems from different perspectives, to engage in constructive dialogue and to present their arguments clearly and convincingly.

“As we now witness the final round of this debate among our public school students, we celebrate not only the skills of our participants, but also the spirit of intellectual curiosity and respectful discourse that this competition embodies.

“The ability to clearly articulate your arguments, respond to counterarguments, and engage your colleagues in a respectful and considerate manner was commendable.”

She reminded the students that true victory lies not just in winning or losing, but in the knowledge gained, ideas exchanged and friendships made.

The minister also praised the teachers for their guidance, encouragement, dedication and care, as well as for teaching the students the mechanics of debate.

“More importantly, I praised the teachers for teaching students the value of perseverance, resilience and the importance of informed discourse,” she added.

In his remarks, the Acting Chairman of the FCT Universal Basic Education Board said: Dr. Alhassan Suleexplained that the debate is about discovering the hidden potential of public school students and instilling good moral values ​​in them.

Sule urged stakeholders to commend the efforts of the Federal Government in developing the education sector.

For his part, Ola Olukoyodethe Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), praised the initiative, pointing out that the move would instill good morals among secondary school students.

Represented by the Deputy Commander of the Commission, responsible for reconnaissance and reorientation, Aisha MohammedThe Chairman stressed the need to adequately prepare schoolchildren to build a better world.

“You have a choice: to accept the status quo or to challenge it; to be part of the problem or part of the solution.

“I urge you to choose integrity, transparency and accountability.

“Be the foot soldiers of the EFCC, see something, say something and rest assured that the EFCC will do something about it.

“I call on all of you to work together to fight corruption and build a world where honesty is the norm, not the exception.“, he said.