Date: December 06, 2024
The grand finale of the Uganda Speech and Debate Champions League (USDCL) 2024 was held under the theme: “Promoting Effective Participation of Youth in the War Against Corruption.” This year’s competition brought together over 24 schools, featuring both national and regional champions from across the country.
The competition is held once every year organized by the National Debate Council and State House Anti-corruption Unit.
The semi-finals and final rounds saw Uganda’s brightest young minds showcase their debating prowess on issues surrounding corruption and accountability. Their energy, passion, and thought-provoking ideas reflected the pivotal role young people can play in shaping a corruption-free future.
Delivering remarks on behalf of Brig Gen Henry Isoke, Head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), the Special Presidential Advisor for Litigation, Mr. Amos Ngolobe, commended the youth for their outstanding participation.
“Your actions today are a testament to the potential of youth to lead the fight against corruption,” he said.
Mr. Ngolobe also applauded Mr. Gasta Kakaire and his team for creating opportunities for young people to engage in such platforms, noting that empowered youth are a formidable force when given access to education and platforms for advocacy.
The Deputy Inspector General of Government (IGG), Dr. Patricia Achan Okiria, who served as Chief Guest, expressed gratitude to the participants and reminded them that every debate argument and rebuttal broadens perspectives and raises national consciousness about the impact of corruption.
She emphasized that youth remain among the most vulnerable to corruption and urged them to embrace values of integrity, truthfulness, patriotism, and social responsibility as they prepare for future leadership.
Dr. Okiria further thanked SH-ACU and the National Debate Council Uganda (NDCU) for organizing the platform, stressing that inter-agency collaboration is key in strengthening the fight against corruption.
After a spirited contest, Nyakasura School emerged as the Champions of Champions of the Uganda Speech and Debate Champions League 2024.
The event was attended by representatives from various anti-corruption agencies, including the Office of the Auditor General (OAG), Internal Security Organisation (ISO), Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and the Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA).
The 2024 USDCL finale reaffirmed that Uganda’s youth are not just future leaders but present-day change-makers. Platforms like these continue to equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to hold leaders accountable and contribute meaningfully to the fight against corruption