JOHANNESBURG – Free State learners have taken top honours at the fifth Youth4SaferSA National Debate Championship, beating teams from across South Africa in a competition that challenges young people to think critically, research thoroughly and debate solutions to the country’s challenges.
The Free State team, made up of learners from Lekgarietse Secondary School and Mamello Secondary School, claimed first place. North West finished second, while KwaZulu-Natal took third.
The championship, organised by the Safer South Africa Foundation (SSAF), brought together 254 Grade 8 to 11 learners from 25 schools across all nine provinces.
The participating schools included learners from townships and rural communities experiencing high levels of poverty and crime. Schools from Polokwane, Kimberley, Cape Town, Soweto, East London, Klerksdorp, Welkom and the Ehlanzeni District in Mpumalanga were among those taking part.
Young people challenged to shape the future
This year’s competition was held under the theme “50 Years On: Reimagining the Legacy of June 16 for the South African Learner of Tomorrow.”
Fifty years after the 1976 Soweto Youth Uprising, learners were challenged to imagine themselves as members of a National Youth Education Council and develop practical proposals for the future of South African education.
Their proposals had to balance African history and local culture with the technical skills needed by learners preparing to participate in an increasingly interconnected global economy.
The championship also coincides with UNESCO International Literacy Day on 8 September, which this year focuses on “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity.”
The theme presents literacy as a fundamental human right while highlighting its importance for inclusion, environmental awareness and preparation for the world of work.
Free State team praised
SSAF Free State Provincial Coordinator Pitso Mereko praised the provincial champions for their preparation and performance.
“Team Free State showed complete discipline on stage. Their research was thorough and their arguments held up under intense questioning. They built public speaking and critical thinking skills that will stay with them long after this tournament.”
Team captain Dibuseng Nkoala said the victory was the result of six weeks of intensive preparation.
“We spent six weeks preparing intensely for these debates and seeing that hard work pay off with a national victory is an incredible feeling.”
Nkoala said debating had helped the team develop critical-thinking skills, improve their academic performance and build confidence.
She also thanked the SSAF, teachers, parents and other supporters who assisted the team during its preparation.
“Researching this year’s theme taught us how policy decisions work and gave us confidence to offer practical solutions,” she said.
North West’s second-placed team consisted of learners from Matlosana Secondary School and Alabama Secondary School.
KwaZulu-Natal’s third-placed team included learners from Pinetown Boys High School, Wyebank Secondary School and Eric Mtshali Secondary School.
‘Young people can drive real change’
SSAF chief executive officer Riah Phiyega said reaching the fifth national championship was an important milestone for the organisation.
“Every team brought sharp arguments to the stage. When young people get a platform like this, they show they can drive real change regardless of where they start in life,” said Phiyega.
For the Free State delegation, the national victory is a significant achievement that highlights the academic ability and determination of learners from the province.
The competition also provided participants with an opportunity to engage with South Africa’s history while considering practical solutions for the future of education.
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