Tanzanian university students shine in EU Debate Contest, top three winners to visit Poland
The best three speakers of the EU Debate Contest, from left Careen Ndika, (UDSM) Diana Shabani (DarTU) and Kijafaraja Maduhu (UDSM). PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- The winners, selected from a competitive pool of talented participants, were recognised for their exceptional debating skills and critical thinking.
Dar es Salaam . Three Tanzanian university students have emerged victorious in the European Union (EU) Youth Debate Contest, earning a fully sponsored trip to Poland.
The winners, selected from a competitive pool of talented participants, were recognised for their exceptional debating skills and critical thinking.
Careen Ndika from the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) was crowned the overall best speaker, while Diana Shabani from Dar es Salaam Tumaini University (DarTU) and Kijafaraja Maduhu from the University of Dar es Salaam claimed the runner-up spots.
The trio will travel to Poland later this year for an educational and cultural study visit, courtesy of the Polish Embassy in Tanzania.
Reflecting on her win, Ms Ndika said, “Winning this competition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of every participant. This contest has shown us the power of structured debate and the impact of well-articulated ideas. I am honoured to be among the winners and look forward to the journey ahead.”
Debate finalists in a group photo with EU Ambassador, Christine Grau and the Acting Polish Ambassador, Katarzyna Sobiecka. PHOTO | COURTESY
The live debate, held on 30 and 31 January 2025 at the University of Dar es Salaam Library Auditorium, saw 20 finalists compete on the motion: “Having your own business guarantees a more sustainable income than a regular job.” The winning team, which opposed the motion, included Ndika, Maduhu, Erick Kaja, Mary Kibira, and Timothy Jeremiah.
Director of Learning and Planning at Twaweza and Chief Judge of the contest, Dr Baruani Mshale, commended the participants for their strong arguments and historical awareness.
“This debate shattered the myth that Tanzanians cannot communicate effectively. The students skilfully connected history with present challenges, demonstrating critical thinking that is crucial for shaping the future,” he noted.
Launched on 18 November 2024, the EU Youth Debate Contest was part of the European Union’s ongoing efforts to engage Tanzanian youth in socio-economic development discussions. Over 400 applicants competed, with the top 100 advancing through a Social Media Debate Challenge held in December. The final 20 participants were selected for the live debate rounds.
At the event, EU Ambassador to Tanzania, Christine Grau, emphasised the importance of fostering critical thinking among young people.
EU Ambassador Christine Grau addressing an audiance at the debate contest finals and award event. PHOTO | COURTESY
“The European Union is proud to support initiatives like this. Young people form the majority in Tanzania and globally, and we are impressed by their talent and fresh ideas. We hope to make this an annual event, reaching even more students and fostering a culture of debate in Tanzania.”
The Polish Embassy, a key partner in the initiative, expressed its commitment to youth empowerment. Acting Polish Ambassador to Tanzania, Katarzyna Sobiecka, said,
“We believe in building people-to-people connections, as networking often leads to new opportunities. We are delighted to offer the top three winners an educational and cultural trip to Poland this summer, ensuring an enriching experience.”
The Youth Debate Contest, the first of its kind organised by the European Union for university students under 25, was attended by a diverse audience, including secondary and university students, civil society members, academics, media, and private sector representatives.
The event is set to become an annual fixture, equipping Tanzanian students with essential skills for their future careers.
