At a time many other leaders and institutions handle educational matters with levity, Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State has made some vital history.
He has inaugurated a debate competition for youths, with a whopping prize of N15 million for the winning team.
Often, many stakeholders splash huge money on projects less important, to the extent that even best graduates from various institutions get little to nothing when winners of entertainment shows go home with millions.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State it is who also recently made a giant step in Mbah’s direction as he rewarded the Best Graduating student of the Lagos State University with N10m.
Mbah disclosed his own stride on his verified X handle, @PNMbah, on Monday, adding that the debate was being organised through the Office of his Senior Special Assistant on Social Culture and Self-Development, with support from the private sector.
He said the debate would feature 37 teams, representing all the 20 universities in the state, and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in the 17 local government areas.
“My latest social culture project is a ‘Debate Tournament’ for young people in Enugu State. I have provided a platform for you to debate social issues that influence our culture, and the winning team will be rewarded with N15 million.
“It is important to give our young people a platform to voice their opinions and contribute to the society.
“It is important that they feel heard and understood. One of the best ways to achieve this is through intellectual discourse.
“To our young people, this is your time and your turn; the stage is yours. Do your research and think critically; challenge the norms and amaze us with your wits and persuasion.
“Congrats in advance to the winning team,” the governor said.
He advised those interested in knowing more about the debate to follow the social media handles, @debatecoolit and @deradebates, and also check the state government’s website, enugustate.gov.ng.
