The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has called for the institutionalization of debate programs in public schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to encourage healthy discussions on key issues among young students.
This appeal was made during the grandfinale of the 2024 Head to Head Debate Reality House, an event organized by the FCT Universal Basic Education Board in collaboration with the FCT Reform Coordination and Service Improvement.
In a statement released by Mr. Austine Elemue, the S.A Media to the FCT Minister of State, and made available to newsmen on Friday in Abuja, Mahmoud, represented by Mrs. Grace Adayilo, Permanent Secretary of the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, emphasized the significance of debates in a world often characterized by division.
She noted that debates help remind people of the power of conversation and the importance of understanding diverse viewpoints.
“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,” Mahmoud stated.
She praised the participants for their achievements in reaching the grandfinale and for their ability to articulate points, respond to counter-arguments, and engage with peers respectfully and thoughtfully.
The Acting Executive Chairman of the FCT Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Alhassan Sule, highlighted the debate’s objective of uncovering the hidden potential of participants and instilling good moral values.
He reiterated that education is the foundation of any developing society, urging all stakeholders to support the federal government’s educational development efforts.
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyode, represented by Assistant Commander Aisha Mohammed, also commended the debate’s goals of instilling good morals in students.
He urged the students to challenge the status quo, choose integrity, transparency, accountability, and become foot soldiers in the fight against corruption.
The debate, which saw JSS Kubwa and JSS Dutse Alhaji 2 face off on the topic: “Poverty: A Threat to School Population,” concluded with the presentation of gift items to the students.
