The Primary Schools Debate Challenge (PriDC) has officially rolled out its provincial workshops, with Mashonaland West Province hosting a successful session at Hartley 1 Primary School in Chegutu on Thursday.
The workshop brought together primary schools from across the province, creating a platform for learners to sharpen critical thinking, public speaking and teamwork skills through structured debate activities.
Participants took part in interactive sessions focusing on debate techniques, research methods and effective communication, with the aim of building confidence and equipping learners with skills to articulate their views on social and developmental issues affecting children.
PriDC is a non-profit organisation that uses debate as a tool to educate African children on issues such as child abuse, early marriages, drug abuse and other challenges facing young people, while nurturing leadership and civic responsibility.
Speaking to The Standard, PriDC director and national convener National Marwa said the workshops were designed to prepare learners for competitive debating while also promoting values of respect and sportsmanship.
“These workshops are meant to equip learners with essential debating skills while cultivating good sportsmanship. We are focused on nurturing confident, informed and empathetic young leaders,” said Marwa.
He added that debate platforms encourage learners to engage critically with societal challenges.
“Debates are an eye-opener for learners, enabling them to articulate informed opinions on pressing issues such as drug abuse and early child marriages,” he said.
Marwa said the Chegutu workshop was the second provincial session, following a successful launch in Harare Province, with upcoming workshops scheduled for Masvingo and Midlands provinces as PriDC works towards covering all 10 provinces.
PriDC brings together schools from Zimbabwe and across Africa, with local schools continuing to perform strongly at regional competitions.
Two Kadoma-based schools emerged winners in previous editions, underscoring Zimbabwe’s growing presence on the continental debate stage.
Education experts note that debate participation helps learners develop essential life skills such as confidence, critical thinking, collaboration and respect for diverse views.
Marwa described debate as a structured discussion that allows participants to present both favourable and opposing arguments on a given topic.
The workshop at Hartley 1 Primary School was described as a resounding success, with learners expressing enthusiasm for the programme.
Teachers who attended the workshop were also awarded certificates after completing an adjudication training course.