Ijero Constituency Hosts Successful Secondary School Debate Competition on Technology in Education.

Ijero Ekiti, 8th November 2024 – The Civic Center in Ijero Ekiti was filled with youthful energy and intellectual vigor as the Ijero Constituency Inter-Secondary School Debate Competition took place on 8th November 2024. The competition, organized by Honorable Aniyikaye Aduragbemi Emmanuel and his team, brought together secondary schools from across the constituency to tackle the thought-provoking topic, "Is Technology a Beneficial Tool or a Distraction in the Classroom?"

The event, aimed at promoting critical thinking, public speaking, and teamwork among students, saw participants delivering well-researched arguments on both sides of the technology debate. The competition was a key platform for the students to engage in lively discussions on the role of technology in modern education, its advantages, and its potential downsides.

The Winners:

After an intense round of debates, the judges announced the following winners:

1. First Place: Dayo Abe Memorial College, Ijero Ekiti
2. Second Place: Ijero High School
3. Third Place: Ijurin Comprehensive High School

The debaters impressed the judges with their ability to present compelling evidence and well-structured arguments. The affirmative teams argued that technology could enhance learning through greater engagement, accessibility, and personalized educational experiences. Meanwhile, the opposing teams raised concerns about the distractions technology can cause, the digital divide, and the potential for diminished attention spans in students.

Judges’ Feedback:

The judges commended the students and appreciated the teachers for their deep understanding of the topic and the quality of their presentations. “The quality of arguments and the clarity with which students presented their points were outstanding,” said one of the judges. “It is evident that these students have not only mastered the topic but also demonstrated critical thinking and confidence well beyond their age.”

Honorable Aniyikaye Aduragbemi Emmanuel’s Remarks:

Honorable Aniyikaye Aduragbemi Emmanuel, the organizer of the event and a key advocate for youth development, expressed his pride in the students’ performances. “I am thrilled to witness the depth of knowledge and creativity our young people possess,” he said. “These students have shown that they are ready to engage with the important issues facing our education system. I congratulate all the participants for their exceptional efforts.”

Honorable Emmanuel also emphasized the importance of fostering critical thinking skills in the youth. “Debates like this not only strengthen public speaking abilities but also encourage students to think critically about the world around them. As we continue to live the digital age, it is important that we guide our students to understand how to leverage technology effectively in their education.”

Looking Ahead:

The success of the competition has sparked interest in making such events a regular one in Ijero Ekiti. In his closing remarks, Honorable Emmanuel recommended more frequent debate competitions to encourage students to engage with complex topics and hone their research and speaking skills. He also advocated for greater integration of technology in the classroom, along with teacher training to maximize its educational potential.

The event concluded with a celebration of the students’ achievements, and a commitment to nurturing future leaders who are not only academically sound but also capable of leading meaningful discussions on the issues shaping the future of education.

As Ijero Ekiti continues to prioritize youth development, events like this competition highlight the potential of young minds to drive positive change in the community and beyond.