As the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) marks its 50th anniversary, efforts to deepen regional integration are extending beyond policy discussions to actively engage the youth, recognizing them as the region’s future leaders. This commitment was highlighted in Accra, where six Senior High Schools competed in a spirited inter-schools debate. The event, themed “Stronger Together, For A Brighter Future,” saw Tema Senior High School emerge victorious after an impressive display of critical thinking and persuasive argumentation.
The debate, a collaborative initiative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Media Response (a Non-State Organization), and the Ghana Education Service, aims to inspire and involve the youth in regional affairs.
This third inter-schools debate, marking ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary, seeks to enhance youth awareness and understanding of the Bloc’s role in regional integration, encouraging participants to identify challenges and propose solutions. The competing schools included St. Thomas Aquinas Senior High, Labone Senior High, St. John’s Grammar, Ebenezer Senior High, Accra Wesley Girls High School, and Tema Senior High. Schools were paired to argue for and against three motions based on the anniversary theme.
Chief Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ramses Joseph Cleland, emphasized that the debate transcends academic exercise, serving as a practical expression of democracy and critical thinking.
“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, bringing fresh perspectives to its 50-year journey. Your arguments have highlighted the essence of democracy and the vibrant future of our region,” Ambassador Cleland stated.
He urged students to carry the spirit of the debate forward, emphasizing that their voices matter as they look ahead to the next 50 years of ECOWAS.
Ambassador Mohammed Lawan Gana, ECOWAS Resident Representative to Ghana, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of investing in youth as the driving force behind West Africa’s future. He reaffirmed ECOWAS’s commitment to youth empowerment, digital innovation, and inclusive governance as key pillars of its Vision 2050.
Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, Professor Smile Gavua Dzisi, noted that the sub-region’s future depends on how well the youth are educated and empowered to sustain and advance the legacy of ECOWAS.
In a thrilling final round, Tema SHS defeated Ebenezer SHS to clinch the championship, receiving a cash prize of 4,000 cedis, along with an additional donation of 10,000 cedis from the ECOWAS Resident Representative. Ebenezer SHS took home 3,500 cedis for their efforts.
St. Thomas Aquinas SHS secured third place based on their overall performance, earning 3,000 cedis, while St. John’s Grammar, Accra Wesley Girls’, and Labone SHS each received 2,000 cedis. All participating schools were awarded citations, certificates, and souvenirs.
The debate series underscored the pivotal role of education and youth engagement in building a united and prosperous West Africa, where the next generation actively shapes its future.
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