Reviving the Art of Debate in Nigerian Basic Schools, group tells govt

The 11th edition of the Felabration Secondary School Debate has concluded, leaving behind not just echoes of spirited discussions but a resounding call to action for the revival of debating in basic schools across Nigeria.

This event, organized by the children of the iconic Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, spearheaded by Yeni Kuti, serves as a reminder of the educational and intellectual treasures that debating can unlock in the hearts and minds of young learners.

Yeni Kuti, the convener of Felabration and one of Fela's children, passionately advocated for the reintroduction of debates in basic schools. She highlighted the immense value that debating can bring to students, emphasizing its potential to improve public speaking and communication skills. The significance of these skills cannot be overstated in today's world, where effective communication is a gateway to success in various professional and personal endeavors.

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The Felabration Debate, now in its 11th year, has not only showcased the brilliance and eloquence of the participating students but has also provided a platform for nurturing these essential skills. Yeni Kuti expressed her delight at the outstanding performances of students from Lagos-owned schools who have consistently taken the lead in the competition over the past two years. This achievement is a testament to the benefits of regular exposure to debate, and it underlines the need for a wider adoption of this practice across the nation.

Debating, as emphasized by Yeni Kuti, holds immense potential to bring out the intellectual prowess of students. Fela Anikulapo-Kuti was renowned for his intellectual depth, and it is through events like Felabration that his legacy of intellectualism can be passed on to the younger generation. Yeni noted that while debating was a common feature in schools in her youth, it has sadly faded away in recent times. Therefore, she called upon the government to pay more attention to the education sector, specifically to revive the practice of debate. By doing so, they can help students develop critical thinking, strong communication skills, and the ability to articulate their thoughts effectively.

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Mr. Chris Borna, the head of the judges for the Felabration Debate, further emphasized the importance of debating in nurturing strong communication skills. He described debating as a civilized form of conversation, governed by rules, time-keeping, and the ability to handle pressure effectively. These skills, he stressed, are vital for personal and professional development. Through debate, students not only learn how to make eye contact and articulate their points clearly but also how to think on their feet and add depth to their arguments. 

The winners of this year's Felabration Debate have set an inspiring example. Abdulrahmah Oke from King's College, Lagos, emerged as the champion, with the second and third positions being secured by Kiiihari Ige of Vivian Fowler Memorial College and Babalola Aishat of Gbaja Girls Senior Secondary School, respectively. Their success serves as a testament to the potential that debating holds in shaping the future leaders of Nigeria. In a move to encourage and support these young debaters, all participating schools were awarded a Yamaha Keyboard, symbolizing the importance of nurturing talent in multiple domains, including music, as an integral part of a well-rounded education.