Report On Schools Debate in Eket Senatorial District

To commemorate World Environment Day with the theme “End Plastic Pollution,” a schools debate was held across the three Senatorial Districts (Eket, Uyo and Ikot Ekpene) of Akwa Ibom State. The debate topic was “The benefits of plastic outweigh its disadvantages”.

EKET SENATORIAL DISTRICT DEBATE
The debate kicked off in Eket Senatorial District, hosted by Methodist Senior Science School, Oron, which proposed the motion. The Honorable Commissioner of Environment and Mineral Resources, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Iquo Abia Esq., declared the programme open.

KEYNOTE ADDRESS
In her keynote address, the representative of the Honourable Commissioner, Mrs. Iquo Abia Esq. emphasized the State government’s commitment to tackling environmental issues. She highlighted the importance of education in promoting environmental stewardship. She noted that debates enhance public speaking, confidence, teamwork, critical thinking, and analytical skills.

DEBATE PROCEEDINGS
The debate was moderated by Mrs. Mfon Edet, who ensured a smooth and engaging discussion. The Judges lead by Mrs. Elizabeth James, Imoh Archibong and Emeti Attai outlined the judging criteria, focusing on:

1. Argumentation (Strength, Relevance, Clarity, Consistency, Convincing, and Persuasive)
2. Evidence
3. Ability to counter opponents’ arguments
4. Communication
5. Teamwork

TIME MANAGEMENT
Eno William served as the Time Keeper, ensuring adherence to time limits.

POST-DEBATE REFLECTION
Following the debate, students from the host and observing schools shared their insights on what they learned about the benefits and disadvantages of plastic, demonstrating a deeper understanding of the topic.

DEBATE OUTCOME
Due to the opposing school’s absence, the proposing side’s students were briefed to argue both sides. The proposing side won with 76 points against 70 points from the opposing side. Students from GraceSeed International School, Oron, and Methodist Boys High School, Oron, observed the debate.

RECOGNITION AND AWARD
All the participating schools, including the host and observers, received cash awards and certificates of participation.

CONCLUSION
The Schools Debate on ‘The benefits of plastic outweigh its disadvantages’ marked a significant milestone in promoting environmental awareness and critical thinking among students.

Congratulations to the winners and participants from Methodist Senior Science School, Oron, Oron LGA and appreciation to the Ministry of Environment for their support. This initiative underscores the importance of education and community engagement in addressing plastic pollution and fostering a sustainable future.
I added the part they were awarded Certificate of participation and cash awards
Uyo Senatorial District

INTRODUCTION
The schools debate continued in the Uyo Senatorial District, hosted by Lutheran High School, Obot Idim, which opposed the motion “The benefits of plastic outweigh its disadvantages.”

DEBATE PROCEEDINGS
The debate was moderated by Mrs. Mfon Edet, who skillfully facilitated the discussion, ensured adherence to rules, and encouraged engaging interactions between the teams. The Director of Climate Change Department, Mrs. Ini Umoh, represented the Hon. Commissioner for Environment and expressed optimism about the session.

JUDGING CRITERIA
The Chief Judge, Mrs. Elizabeth James, outlined the judging criteria, focusing on:

1. Argumentation (Strength, Relevance, Clarity, Consistency)
2. Evidence
3. Ability to counter opponents’ arguments
4. Communication
5. Teamwork

TIME MANAGEMENT
Mrs. Ekamma Umouko served as the Time Keeper, ensuring the debate stayed on schedule.

DEBATE OUTCOME
After an engaging session, Community Secondary School, Aka Offot won with 86 points, outperforming Lutheran High School, Obot Idim with 80 points. The winning team’s strength, research, and teamwork were evident in their arguments.

OBSERVING SCHOOLS
Three schools from Uyo Senatorial District observed the debate: Uyo High School, Uyo, Ndikpo Grammar School, Ibesikpo Asutan and West Itam Secondary School, Itu.

Post-Debate Reflection
The Moderator, Mrs. Mfon Edet, led an interactive session, where students enthusiastically shared their insights on plastic pollution. The session concluded with the slogan: “Beat Plastic Pollution, Be Bold, Beat Plastic Pollution Step Up!”

RECOGNITION AND AWARDS
All participating schools, including the host and observing schools, received cash prizes and certificates of participation, recognizing their efforts and engagement.

CONCLUSION
The debate promoted critical thinking, teamwork, and environmental awareness among students. By engaging in discussions on plastic pollution, students developed a deeper understanding of the issue and potential solutions, underscoring the importance of education in driving sustainable change.