Young Otjozondjupa debate team wins big

Unwavering dedication paves the way to winning big
Otjozondjupa Region has been crowned the overall champion of the Namport National Debating Competition 2023.
Junior Kapofi
Otjozondjupa Region's debate team emerged victorious at the 2023 Namibian Ports Authority (Namport) National Debate Competition, held at Namport in Walvis Bay.

The competition, sponsored by Namport, brought together thirteen regions from across Namibia, excluding the Hardap Region.

Otjozondjupa's young debaters, armed with persuasive arguments and unwavering determination, secured the title.



The winning team

The Otjozondjupa Region's triumph was the result of meticulous teamwork and outstanding individual performances.

Thomson Mwandingi from Okahandja Secondary School laid a solid foundation for the team. Gottlina Kahengombe from G. K. Wahl Combined School strengthened that foundation, and Grace Haufiku, also from Okahandja Secondary School, cemented it. This trio's collective effort was instrumental in outclassing their rivals, particularly the Kavango East Region, in the final round of the competition.

The Otjozondjupa Region's success was not solely attributed to the speakers, it was extended to the entire class. The following seven debaters also played a crucial role in the team's victory:



1. Joshua Hambira (Catalyst Private School)

2. Faith Magwaza (Karundu)

3. Indileni Haimbala (G.K. Wahl Combined School)

4. Allen Imanga (Grootfontein Secondary School)

5. Selma Jeremia (Grootfontein Secondary School)

6. Iyaloo Mbuale (Grootfontein Secondary School)

7. Victoria Stephanus (J.G. van der Wath Secondary School)



Their collective boldness and unwavering dedication paved the way for success.



A victory worth celebrating

The Otjozondjupa Region's victory in the Namport National Debate Competition came with a generous array of prizes and accolades. The winning region was awarded a substantial cash prize of N$500 000, a gleaming trophy and gold medals, and each debater received an individual prize of N$5 000. This half-million Namibia dollar prize will be dedicated to supporting a noble cause that is still to be identified within the Otjozondjupa Region. This remarkable achievement not only highlights the exceptional debating skills but also underscores the region's commitment to nurturing young talent.



Impact of the Namport competition

Participating in the Namport national debate competition was a transformative experience for all involved. One of the debaters described it as one of the most stressful yet rewarding debates they had ever engaged in. The pressure and intensity pushed the participants to their limits, ultimately leading to well-deserved victories.

Beyond the competition, participants had the unique opportunity to meet some of the finest debaters in the country, explore the inner workings of Namport's operations, and even engage with the CEO of Namport. The event served as a platform for socialising and networking, allowing young minds to expand their horizons.



A symbol of perseverance

The victory of the Otjozondjupa Region in the national debate competition after a ten-year gap is a testament to the power of perseverance. It showcases the region's determination to bounce back from past setbacks and set new records. This victory will undoubtedly inspire future generations of debaters to strive for excellence and never give up on their aspirations.



A message to future debaters

Grace Haufiku, one of the winning debaters, shared some words of encouragement for aspiring debaters.

"Persevere and always maintain a positive mindset. Put in a lot of hard work because you never know when you might emerge victorious." Her story and the success of the Otjozondjupa Region serve as a beacon of hope for those who dream of making their mark in the world of debate.

The Otjozondjupa region's victory in the 2023 Namport National Debate Competition is a remarkable achievement that reflects the region's dedication to nurturing young talent and promoting intellectual excellence. Their victory serves as a source of inspiration for all aspiring debaters, reminding them that with perseverance, teamwork, and unwavering determination, they can achieve greatness.

Comments

Namibian Sun 2024-11-24

No comments have been left on this article

Please login to leave a comment

Katima Mulilo: 20° | 34° Rundu: 21° | 36° Eenhana: 24° | 37° Oshakati: 24° | 35° Ruacana: 22° | 37° Tsumeb: 22° | 35° Otjiwarongo: 21° | 32° Omaruru: 21° | 36° Windhoek: 21° | 31° Gobabis: 22° | 33° Henties Bay: 15° | 19° Swakopmund: 15° | 17° Walvis Bay: 14° | 22° Rehoboth: 22° | 34° Mariental: 23° | 37° Keetmanshoop: 20° | 37° Aranos: 24° | 37° Lüderitz: 13° | 24° Ariamsvlei: 20° | 36° Oranjemund: 13° | 21° Luanda: 25° | 27° Gaborone: 19° | 35° Lubumbashi: 17° | 33° Mbabane: 17° | 34° Maseru: 17° | 32° Antananarivo: 17° | 30° Lilongwe: 22° | 32° Maputo: 21° | 35° Windhoek: 21° | 31° Cape Town: 16° | 21° Durban: 21° | 28° Johannesburg: 19° | 30° Dar es Salaam: 25° | 32° Lusaka: 20° | 31° Harare: 19° | 32° #REF! #REF!