By Hannah Dadzie
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 displayed in Accra, when six Senior High Schools competed in a spirited inter-schools debate. The debate, which focused on the theme, “Stronger Together, For A Brighter Future,” saw Tema Senior High School emerge as champions after an impressive display of critical thinking and persuasive argumentation. The event which was 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.
The third inter-schools’ debate, a key activity marking ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary, seeks to heighten youth awareness and understanding of the Bloc’s role in regional integration, encouraging them to identify challenges and propose solutions. Participating schools were St. Thomas Aquinas Senior High, Labone Senior High, St. John’s Grammar, Ebenezer Senior High, Accra Wesley Girls High School and Tema Senior High. The schools were paired to argue for and against three motions based on the anniversary theme, “Stronger Together, for a Brighter Future.”
Chief Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ramses Joseph Cleland, said the debate is more than an academic exercise, describing it as a practical expression of democracy and critical thinking.
“As the Chief Director for Foreign Affairs, 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 and brought fresh perspectives to its 50-year journey. Your arguments, whether in agreement or spirited disagreement, have highlighted the very essence of democracy and the vibrant future of our region.” Ambassador Cleland stated.
The Chief Director urged the students to carry the spirit of the debate forward.
“As we look ahead to the next 50 years of ECOWAS and beyond, know that your voices matter. The ideas you have shared, the questions you have posed and the solutions you’ve proposed are invaluable. Let us carry the spirit of this debate forward. Let us continue to engage, to innovate, and to build a stronger, more prosperous, and more integrated West Africa”. Ambassador Cleland urged
ECOWAS Resident Representative to Ghana, Ambassador Mohammed Lawan Gana, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing 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, key pillars of its Vision 2050.
Ambassador Lawan Gana expressed optimism for a “united and prosperous West Africa,” where young people play a central role in shaping the future of the sub-region.
Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Education Service in charge of Management Services, Professor Smile Gavua Dzisi, said the sub-region’s future depends on how well the youth are educated and empowered to sustain and advance the legacy of ECOWAS.
“Education remains the cornerstone of collective development, and must be used to nurture young minds that understand diversity, embrace unity, and are prepared to lead in a connected West Africa.” She said
In a fascinating final round, Tema SHS defeated Ebenezer SHS to clinch the championship, receiving a cash prize of 4,000 cedis and an additional donation of 10,000 cedis from the ECOWAS Resident Representative. Ebenezer SHS took home 3,500 cedis.
St. Thomas Aquinas SHS placed third based on their overall performance in the preliminary rounds and received 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 doesn’t just inherit the future but actively shapes it.
One Response
Congratulations to my school , they’ve really done well. Nil Nissi Optima, Nothing But The Best!!!!