AWKA (CONVERSEER) – A team of brilliant students from Saint John Vianney Science College, Ukwulu, Anambra State, has emerged victorious at the 2025 UK-Nigeria International Debate Championship, making the state and Nigeria proud on the global stage.
The prestigious competition, held virtually on 19 June 2025, brought together top-performing secondary schools from Nigeria and the United Kingdom, with participants engaging in high-level debates designed to foster cross-cultural dialogue, critical thinking, and oratory excellence.
The Anambra team, made up of Chibueze Jennifer, Obiokafor Catherine, Eneoli Benjamin, and Onwuegbusi Valentine, showcased outstanding debating skills that impressed the judges, securing victory through their eloquence, clarity of thought, and persuasive argumentation.
Other Nigerian schools that participated included Britarch Schools and Sure Start School, both from Abuja, and St. Augustine’s College, Jos. Representing the UK were Central Foundation Girls’ School, Maghull High School, and Shireland High School.
Organised by Bring It On Africa in collaboration with Debate Mate UK, the international championship serves as a platform to strengthen educational ties between both countries while enhancing students’ analytical and communication skills.
Reacting to the achievement, the First Lady of Anambra State, Dr Nonye Soludo, in a statement released by her media aide, Daniel Ezeigwe, praised the winning team for their brilliance and composure in defeating some UK schools with Ivy League affiliations.
“This feat resonates with the Anambra spirit. Our state continues to mould record-setters and exceptional talents, empowered by the numerous opportunities our administration is creating,” she stated.
Dr Soludo also lauded the management and staff of Saint John Vianney Science College for their dedication to academic excellence, describing the victory as a reflection of the strategic investments her administration continues to make in the education sector.
“By clinching this prestigious prize, these brilliant students have proven once again that the heart of Anambra beats strongly in the pursuit of knowledge. Education remains one of our most cherished values,” the First Lady added.
The victory underscores Anambra’s growing reputation for nurturing academic talent and reaffirms the state’s commitment to raising globally competitive students through quality education.
