The Free State Department of Education (FSDoE) extends heartfelt congratulations to the Free State debate team for achieving 1st Place at the 5th Youth4SaferSA National Debate Championship recently held in Johannesburg.
This outstanding provincial team, consisting of learners from Lekgarietse Secondary School and Mamello Secondary School, excelled against a competitive field of 25 schools and 254 learners from all nine provinces. The North West province secured the second place, followed by KwaZulu-Natal in third.
Themed “50 Years On: Reimagining the Legacy of June 16 for the South African Learner of Tomorrow,” this year’s competition inspired learners to envision education 50 years after the 1976 Soweto Youth Uprising, focusing on a balance between African history, culture, and global technical skills.
Coinciding with UNESCO International Literacy Day, the championship highlighted the importance of literacy and critical thinking. The FSDoE also commends the hard work of coaches, teachers, and FSDoE Provincial Coordinator Mr. Pitso Mereko for their disciplined preparation.
Mamiki Maboya, the Free State Education MEC, expressed immense pride in the learners’ achievements, stating, “This is a proud moment for the Free State. Our learners have shown that literacy is power, and that the Free State remains a province of champions. You have made us proud!”
Maboya emphasized that investing in skills like critical thinking, public speaking, and reading leads to engaged citizens who can shape the future. She applauded the students from Lekgarietse and Mamello for embodying the qualities of confidence, eloquence, and problem-solving that are crucial in every classroom.
Furthermore, she celebrated the significance of their victory, asserting that it proves township and rural schools can succeed at the highest levels.
“Quality education is not about where you come from, but about dedication, discipline, and belief,” Maboya added, underscoring the potential of every learner to achieve greatness.
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