By Mfanufikile Khathwane (Intern)
MBABANE – Eight schools gathered at St Marks High School on June 24 for an intense inter-school debate competition sponsored, Pure Rich Beauty Salon, MTN Eswatini, MOESE , Pure Rich Print and Brand.
The 2025 contest opened with four dynamic motions:
KaBoyce High vs. Mater Dolorosa: Is online learning more effective than traditional education?
Mbabane Central High School vs. Saim Christian High School: Should entrepreneurship be part of school curricula?
Sigangeni High School vs. St Francis High School: Should gender-neutral hairstyle policies be allowed in schools?
St Marks High vs. Woodlands High: Is economic empowerment the best strategy to reduce gender-based violence?
After intense rounds of debate, KaBoyce High, Saim Christian High, Sigangeni High, and Woodlands High advanced to the finals, which will be held on Monday.
Among the highlights was the debate on entrepreneurship in schools. Siphesihle Maseko, from Mbabane Central High School, expressed strong support for the motion.
“Entrepreneurship equips us with vital industry skills and sparks creativity. It prepares us for the real world beyond textbooks,” She said.
However, an opposing voice from Saim Christian High School argued that entrepreneurship should not overshadow academic subjects.
“Not all students are meant to be entrepreneurs. We should first focus on strengthening academic foundations,” the student said.
Khanyisile Dlamini, Head Teacher of St Marks High School, praised the initiative “Debating encourages students to think critically. You are also able to express yourself and what you believe in. No one can bully you because you can stand your ground” she said.
The final round will determine the overall winning school and top individual speakers. Prizes including a Samsung Galaxy A05S, MTN merchandise, E250 Lula Combos, and a sponsored hair-do from Pure Rich Beauty Salon will be awarded at the conclusion of the competition on Monday.
With powerful motions and strong community backing, the competition continues to inspire a new generation of articulate and confident young leaders.
