Abuja, Nigeria- The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has called for the integration of debate programs in public schools across the FCT. This move aims to encourage healthy discussions on important topics among students.
Dr. Mahmoud made this appeal during the grand finale of the 2024 Head to Head Debate Reality House, held in Abuja on Friday. The event, organized by the FCT Universal Basic Education Board in collaboration with the FCT Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, featured the topic, “Poverty, a Threat to School Population.”
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Grace Adayilo, the minister emphasized that debate is not just a competitive exercise but a crucial tool for developing critical thinking, effective communication, and a deep understanding of complex issues. She highlighted the importance of viewing problems from multiple perspectives and engaging in constructive dialogue.
“Debate challenges students to articulate their points, respond to counter-arguments, and engage in respectful discourse. The true victory in debate lies in the knowledge gained, ideas exchanged, and friendships formed,” Dr. Mahmoud stated.
She also praised the teachers for their role in guiding and mentoring the students, helping them understand the mechanics of debate and instilling values such as perseverance and resilience.
In his remarks, Dr. Alhassan Sule, Acting Executive Chairman of the FCT Universal Basic Education Board, noted that the debate was organized to explore the hidden potential of public school students and to instill good moral values in them. He urged stakeholders to support the Federal Government’s efforts in developing the education sector.
Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, who was represented by Aisha Mohammed, Assistant Commander in charge of Enlightenment and Re-orientation, commended the initiative. He stressed the importance of preparing students to build a better world and encouraged them to embrace integrity, transparency, and accountability in their lives.
“You have a choice: to accept the status quo or challenge it; to be part of the problem or part of the solution,” Mr. Olukoyede advised the students, urging them to stand against corruption and contribute to a world where honesty is the norm.
The event concluded with a celebration of the students’ debating skills and the spirit of intellectual inquiry that the competition fostered.
