Mukono District Debating Competition Boosts Critical Thinking and Leadership Skills Among Learners

Mpoma, Mukono- Assistant RDC, Mwanje Hassani has emphasized the importance of debate in building critical thinking among learners, during the first-ever district-wide primary schools debating competition organized by Mukono District Local Government through its Education Department in Mpoma.

The event brought together over 33 schools in a vibrant display of intellect, confidence, and public speaking skills, with St. Edward Granny Primary School from Nakisunga Sub-county emerging as the overall winner, followed by St. Agnes Catholic Girls’ Boarding Primary School from Nakifuma–Naggalama Town Council, and St. Theresa Namagunga Primary School from Namataba Town Council.

Speaking at the event on behalf of RDC Fatuma Ndisaba Nabitaka, Mwanje noted that debate is a powerful tool for shaping learners’ futures by enhancing critical thinking, communication skills, and self-confidence, which are essential for leadership and professional growth. Drawing from his experience as a former debater and legal professional, he encouraged learners to actively participate in such platforms, while cautioning them against the misuse of social media, particularly cyberbullying, which he said is a criminal offense under the Computer Misuse Act.

The District Education Officer, Rashid Kikomeko, described the competition as a major milestone in improving education standards, commending organizers for expanding it from sub-county to district level and revealing plans to introduce a district-wide quiz competition in third term to further promote academic excellence.

Mukono District Speaker Betty Hope Nakasi applauded learners and teachers for their commitment, emphasizing the importance of mastering communication skills, especially in English, and urging learners to present well-structured arguments with clear conclusions, while also encouraging girls to take on leadership roles. The Chairperson of the Debating Committee, Gasheegu Murama Barame, highlighted achievements such as increased participation, improved learner skills, teacher capacity building, and strengthened teamwork, despite challenges including limited funding, logistical constraints, inconsistent participation, and weather disruptions.

Head of Judges Mulondo Davis affirmed that results were determined through a transparent, standardized assessment system based on accumulated points, commending the adjudication team for maintaining fairness and integrity, with all records documented for future reference.

The inaugural competition marks a significant milestone in strengthening education through co-curricular engagement, with leaders noting that debate is a foundation for nurturing confident, disciplined, and responsible future leaders, and expressing optimism that continued collaboration among government, schools, and stakeholders will further enhance learners’ skills and contribute to improved education standards and long-term socio-economic transformation in Mukono District.