The heaviest lips that come to dispute find their strength from steady minds loaded with information. Undoubtedly, it is this principle that supplements the iron-willed nature of all who participate in the prestigious Luv FM Pepsodent Ashanti Regional High School Debate. Our Lady of Grace Senior High School returned this year with a familiar ferocity, represented by Wunzoya Fadina Sule and Jessica Asakibeem, who demonstrated commendable courage and eloquence throughout the competition.
Still accorded the respect from the school’s exceptional performance in the 2024 edition, OLAGSHS was exempted from the zonal qualification rounds by privilege as a seeded school, proceeding directly into the knockout stage of the tournament. A benefit that afforded our debate team sufficient time to adequately prepare in the days leading up to the competition —researching non-stop, holding friendly debates with other schools, and sharpening arguments to perfection.
The Round of 16 was held at Christian Service University College in Kumasi. OLAG faced Kumasi Anglican SHS in a heated match on the controversial motion: “The one cedi per litre tax on fuel is a necessary evil.” After a spirited argument, our team had the final say, securing a spot in the quarterfinals.
With only a few days between rounds, preparation continued at full speed. The quarterfinals, also held at the same venue on June 23, had the basis of discussion centred on the contention: “The UN has failed in its mission to maintain global stability and peace.” Taking a stance against the belligerent KNUST SHS, our team gracefully bowed out of the race, despite our resolute performance.
While this year’s journey did not culminate in a podium finish, the resilience and composure exhibited by the debutant team cannot be overlooked. Their participation underscores the school’s continued commitment to nurturing confident communicators with strong opinions on pressing social issues and current affairs, equipped to make plausible arguments rooted in firm moral grounds.
Special appreciation goes to the coaching team and the contestants, whose dedication and zeal remain a substantial source of pride and inspiration for onlookers and aspiring orators alike. As first-time debaters on such a prominent stage, Wunzoya and Jessica displayed remarkable potential, laying a firm foundation for future contests.
Jessica Asakibeem
2 Science 3
