Tema SHS Crowned Champions in ECOWAS@50 Youth Debate

Tema Senior High School has emerged as the champion of the ECOWAS@50 Youth Debate, a spirited inter-schools debate held at the premises of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra to commemorate the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) 50th anniversary. This was the third edition of the ECOWAS debate, which saw six Senior High Schools compete, showcasing their critical thinking and persuasive argumentation skills.

The participating schools were St. Thomas Aquinas Senior High, Labone Senior High, St. John’s Grammar, Ebenezer Senior High, Accra Wesley Girls High School, and Tema Senior High. The schools were paired to argue for and against three motions based on the anniversary theme, “Stronger Together, For A Brighter Future.”

Champion Emerges

In the final round, Tema SHS defeated Ebenezer SHS to clinch the championship, receiving a cash prize of 4,000 cedis and an additional donation of 10,000 cedis from the ECOWAS Resident Representative. Ebenezer SHS took home 3,500 cedis, while St. Thomas Aquinas SHS placed third, receiving 3,000 cedis.

Officials’ Remarks

Chief Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ramses Joseph Cleland, described the debate as a practical expression of democracy and critical thinking. “As the Chief Director for Foreign Affairs, it’s been truly inspiring to witness the passion and intellect demonstrated in this debate. You have delved deep into the complexities and triumphs of ECOWAS and brought fresh perspectives to its 50-year journey.”

Ambassador Cleland urged the students to carry the spirit of the debate forward, saying, “As we look ahead to the next 50 years of ECOWAS and beyond, know that your voices matter. Let us carry the spirit of this debate forward. Let us continue to engage, to innovate, and to build a stronger, more prosperous, and more integrated West Africa.”

ECOWAS Resident Representative to Ghana, Ambassador Mohammed Lawan Gana, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of investing in youth as the driving force behind West Africa’s future. “We are committed to youth empowerment, digital innovation, and inclusive governance, key pillars of our Vision 2050,” he said.

Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, Professor Smile Gavua Dzisi, highlighted the significance of education in shaping the region’s future. “Education remains the cornerstone of collective development, and must be used to nurture young minds that understand diversity, embrace unity, and are prepared to lead in a connected West Africa,” she said.

Conclusion

The debate series underscored the pivotal role of education and youth engagement in building a united and prosperous West Africa, where the next generation doesn’t just inherit the future but actively shapes it. All participating schools were awarded citations, certificates, and souvenirs, with St. John’s Grammar, Accra Wesley Girls’, and Labone SHS each receiving 2,000 cedis.