KIU crowned Western Region debate champions
The competition, aimed at promoting academic discourse, critical thinking, and public speaking among university students, was hosted at Mbarara University on Friday.
The competition brought together six universities across western Uganda to debate national and global issues. (Photos by Abdulkarim Ssengendo)
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Kampala International University-Western Campus has won the Western Region inter-university debate competition.
The competition, aimed at promoting academic discourse, critical thinking, and public speaking among university students, was hosted at Mbarara University on Friday.
UNESCO organised the debate in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Sports, Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development.
Retisha Nabakka from the Ministry of Education said the competition is being held at various universities in Uganda, and the top two universities from each region will represent their regions at the 2nd National Inter-University Debate Competition 2026, scheduled for September 29, 2026, at Makerere University.
Judges taking notices at the Western Region International University Debate Competition
Dr Primrose Nakazibwe, representing the Central Executive Committee organising the Inter-University Debate, explained that the competitions aim to empower students to critically analyse pressing issues regarding safety, health, and the environment.
“Universities are failing to provide safe spaces for young students to discuss difficult issues, leading some to resort to drug abuse and prostitution due to a lack of support systems. These debates help to give them a platform to talk about such issues and find solutions,” she stated.
“As Ministry of Education, we always support such because it brings to our attention what is going on in these universities, the well-being of a learner, safety and security," she stated.
Ambrose Mugisha Kariyo, the Dean of Students at Mbarara University, hailed the organisers of the debate, emphasising that academic debates play a critical role in fostering students' well-being.
Joshua Abaho Rwakojo, the President of the Debate Society at Kampala International University-Western Campus, asked organisers to organise it regularly, noting that it fosters the mental health of students and prepares them to live impactful lives.