ESUT Triumphs Over UNN, IMT, and 15 Other Institutions in 042 Coal City Debate
Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) emerged as the winner of the 042 Coal City Debate, surpassing 17 other institutions, including the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT).
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) has emerged victorious at the 042 Coal City Debate, outshining the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), its Enugu Campus, the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Godfrey Okoye University, Renaissance University, Caritas University, and several other institutions. ESUT clinched the grand prize of N15 million during the competition’s grand finale, held over the weekend in Enugu.
The Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) took second place, receiving a cash prize of N5 million, while the University of Nigeria Enugu Campus (UNEC) secured the third position. The tournament, tagged "Debate Cool-it," began 12 weeks ago, featuring over 20 tertiary institutions from across Enugu State.
In his remarks, Governor Peter Mbah, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, reiterated his administration's commitment to enhancing the quality of education in the state. He emphasized the importance of fostering creativity, critical thinking, and innovation among students at all educational levels. According to Governor Mbah, this initiative aims to develop young individuals who can become transformative leaders in society.
“This competition is just the first phase for higher education. We plan to extend similar initiatives to secondary and primary schools, especially the Smart Green Schools, to build resilient youths who can compete globally,” said Governor Mbah. He urged the participants to apply the knowledge gained during the rigorous 12-week exercise to set a benchmark for others.
The organiser, Mrs. Dera Okenwa, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Social Culture and Self-Development, highlighted that the debate covered various global and societal issues, including climate change, human rights, governance, corruption, gender inequality, cybercrime, and more. The topics were chosen to test the debaters' intellect and broaden their perspectives.
"Our goal was to create a platform for meaningful discussions where individuals can debate without intimidation or threats, and learn to respect diverse views," Okenwa stated. She also praised the debate's success in promoting civic values and leadership skills.
Emmanuel Nwuze, one of the participants, expressed appreciation on behalf of his fellow debaters, commending the state government for providing a platform that allowed young people to contribute significantly to the state's development.
The 042 Coal City Debate marks a significant step toward Governor Mbah's vision of nurturing a generation of leaders equipped to drive societal change.
