The Bauchi State Government has organized an inter-public secondary schools debate competition aimed at identifying exceptional students to represent the state at international forums.
Dr. Lawal Mohammed, the state Commissioner for Education, disclosed this during the final stage of the 26th democracy anniversary of the President's inter-school debate competition on Wednesday, which was organized by the ministry.
"It is to fish out the best in our students and test them at this grand level so that we can use them at the international levels. I was carried away by these students' performance," Mohammed stated.
The Commissioner attributed the impressive performance to Governor Bala Mohammed's educational initiatives, saying, "This is a result of the quality of education the governor is providing. With his support, we will ensure that the best is coming out of what he is giving."
He further expressed confidence in the students' abilities, noting that teachers are performing effectively and many previously dropped-out students are returning to school due to government interventions.
The debate was organized in collaboration with the President's School Debate Nigeria (PSDN), Northeast Zonal Office, Bauchi.
Alhaji Mohammed Adamu, the Zonal Coordinator of PSDN, explained that the event was designed to promote healthy competition and sportsmanship among public school students in the state. He highlighted that the initiative was facilitated by Governor Bala Mohammed to revitalize the basic education sector and address pressing educational challenges.
"Today, we are celebrating not just the closing of this competition, but the opening of doors to a brighter future for our students," Adamu remarked. "My heart is filled with immense pride to witness the expertise shown by these young talented students, who have displayed that education knows no bound or gender limitations."
He emphasized the importance of school debates as an extracurricular activity, describing them as "one of the most important components of education curriculum" that provides opportunities for both teachers and pupils to develop their intellectual capacities and leadership skills through public speaking.
Competition Results
Mr. Nasiru Ahmed, Chairman of the panel of Judges, announced Government Girls College, Bauchi as the overall winner of the competition. Government Day Secondary School, Gwallameji secured the first runner-up position, while Government Day Secondary School, Disina in Shira Local Government Area emerged as the second runner-up.
Individual honors went to Rukayya Adams of Government Girls College, Bauchi, who was named the overall best speaker of the debate, with Emmanuel Luka of Government Day Secondary School, Gwallameji recognized as the second overall best speaker.
The competition underscores Bauchi State's commitment to educational excellence and providing platforms for students to showcase their talents and develop critical thinking skills essential for future leadership roles.
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