All is set for the third edition of the CBZ Schools Debate and Public Speaking Competition, with 25,000 learners from across Zimbabwe expected to compete for a US$35,000 prize fund at Dominican Convent High School in Harare this Friday and Saturday.
The two-day tournament will feature both junior and senior public school learners, with organisers saying the inclusion of primary schools is aimed at nurturing communication, critical thinking and leadership skills from an early age.
Dominican Convent High School Head, Sister Kudzai Musture O.P., said the partnership with CBZ reflects a shared commitment to the holistic development of learners.
“The inclusion of primary schools in this environment is therefore a meaningful decision. Before a learner becomes a competent student in primary and secondary school, they begin by learning to read, write, spell and express themselves under the guidance of educators,” she said.
Sister Musture said the competition provides a platform for learners to build confidence, find their voices and develop into future leaders.
“Speak with conviction, listen with respect, and compete with yourself. May the lessons you learn during this partnership continue to shape you long after it has ended,” she said.
CBZ Executive Retail Banking representative Hope Marere said the bank views its sponsorship as an investment in developing young leaders equipped with critical thinking and effective communication skills.
“This is not just a battle of ideas. It’s a celebration of confidence, clarity and courage,” said Marere.
She added that the tournament offers students an opportunity to exchange ideas respectfully while sharpening their public speaking and debating abilities.
Both Sister Musture and Marere also paid tribute to teachers and debate coaches for their dedication in preparing learners for the national competition.
“We share a common belief that education extends beyond the classroom, and that every learner deserves opportunities to develop skills that prepare them for life,” Sister Musture said.
The annual competition is expected to draw participants, educators and coaches from across the country as learners compete for top honours in one of Zimbabwe’s biggest schools’ debating and public speaking tournaments.
