Minister advocates institutionalisation of school debate in FCT

Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Mariya Mahmoud, has called for the institutionalization of debate in public schools across the Federal Capital Territory, so as to foster healthy conversations on topical issues among the young ones.

Mahmoud made this call at the grand finale of the 2024, Head to Head Debate Reality House, organised for public schools by the FCT Universal Basic Education Board in collaboration with the FCT Reform Coordination and Service Improvement.

The minister who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, noted that in a world that often seems divided, these debates remind Nigerians of the power of conversation and the importance of understanding different viewpoints, stressing that the event marks a significant achievement in the academic journey of the students.

Mahmoud said; “Debating is much more than a competitive exercise, it is an art form and a powerful tool for developing critical thinking, effective communication, and a deep understanding of complex issues.

“It challenges participants and students to view problems from multiple perspectives, to engage in constructive dialogue, and to present their arguments with clarity and conviction”.

She further said; “Today, as we witness the final round of this debate amongst our students in public schools, we celebrate not only the skills of our participants but also the spirit of intellectual inquiry and respectful discourse that this competition embodies”.

She, however, commended the participants for achieving so much by reaching the grand finale, noting that their ability to articulate their points, respond to counter-arguments, and engage with their peers in a respectful and thoughtful manner was commendable.

“Whether you are the victors or not, your participation and efforts have demonstrated a level of maturity and insight that will serve you well in all your future endeavours.

“As we move forward in today’s debate, let us remember that the true victory lies not just in winning or losing, but in the knowledge gained, the ideas exchanged, and the friendships forged,” she stressed.

Mahmoud, also commended the teachers and mentors for their guidance, encouragement, and dedication, adding they have not only taught them the mechanics of debate but also instilled in them the values of perseverance, resilience, and the importance of informed discourse.

In his remarks, the Acting Executive Chairman, FCT Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Alhassan Sule, said the objective of the head to head debate amongst students of public schools in the FCT was to explore the hidden potential of the participants and to inculcate good moral values in them.

He also reiterated that education remains the bedrock of any developing society, and it is the responsibility of all stakeholders to compliment the efforts of the federal government in the development of education.

Also speaking, the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyode, commended the objective of the head to head debate which aimed at inculcating good morals in secondary schools students.

Represented by the Assistant Commander of the Commission, in charge of Enlightenment and Re-orientation, Aisha Mohammed, stressed that as future leaders, the need to catch them young is paramount as the students have the power to shape a better world.

In his words; “You have a choice: to accept the status quo or 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 EFCC will do something about it”.

He charged the students to stand together against corruption and build a world where honesty is the norm, not the exception.

It be recalled that JSS Kubwa and JSS Dutse Alhaji 2 are the two schools that slogged it out at the grand finale with the topic: “Poverty a Threat to School Population”