Lagos Schools Debate Promotes Critical Thinking, Rewards Winners

The inaugural Lagos schools debate competition, focused on empowering Nigeria's future leaders, has successfully concluded, celebrating the critical thinking and problem-solving skills of its young participants. Spearheaded by the World Schools Debate Championship, the event provided a platform for students to engage in rigorous intellectual exchange.

In the senior secondary school category, the debate motion centered on the use of technology to revive extinct animal species. Wellspring College emerged victorious, with Maryland Comprehensive School securing the second position. For the junior secondary school category, the motion addressed whether schools have the right to punish cyberbullying outside of school grounds. British International Junior School took first place, followed by Grace High School, Gbagada.

“

The purpose is to encourage problem solving, critical thinking and the ability to exercise knowledge retention

Winners were awarded trophies and cash gifts, recognizing their efforts and achievements. Bukunmi Babatunde, the convener, highlighted the competition's success in equipping students with essential skills, emphasizing debate's value for academic and personal growth. She noted that the event introduced students to the internationally recognized Junior World Schools debate format, which prioritizes impromptu speaking and analytical reasoning over rote memorization.

Babatunde described the students' performances as remarkable, especially considering the demanding nature of the contest. Participants had to prepare arguments on debate topics within tight timeframes, often with only about 30 minutes before preliminary and elimination rounds. Despite these pressures, students demonstrated confidence, enthusiasm, and a strong grasp of complex ideas, showcasing their ability to think independently and develop practical problem-solving skills through impromptu debates.

“

The finals are a testimony to this success. The ability of the students to deliver exceptional speeches on topics they were only presented with 30 minutes before the round demonstrates independent thinking and problem-solving skills