Over 1000 students from across Uganda have gathered for a week of intellectual competition and leadership development at the UNSA National Debate Championships 2025. The 4th edition of the UNSA National Schools Debate, Poetry, and Public Speech Championship is now officially open.
The UNSA National Debate Championships 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience for all participants.
The UNSA National Debate Championships 2025 aims to foster collaboration and critical thinking among students.
This prestigious event, organized by the Uganda National Students Association (UNSA), is being held at Vision for Africa High School in Nakifuma, Mukono District. The championship runs from August 24th to 28th, 2025.
A Grand Opening Ceremony Sets the Tone
The championship began with an inspiring opening ceremony graced by a special guest. The Deputy Inspector General of Government, Dr. Patricia Achan Okiria, officially declared the event open.
Dr. Okiria delivered a powerful message to the assembled students. She spoke on the core values of accountability, patriotism, and upholding strong personal values. Furthermore, she commended UNSA for their excellent work in organizing the event. She also encouraged more such initiatives aimed at championing nation-building.
The discussions at the UNSA National Debate Championships 2025 will address important societal challenges.
The students listened attentively as guests delivered words of inspiration. The key messages were a clear call to action. They focused on fostering patriotism, embracing leadership, and the critical importance of preventing HIV/AIDS among young people.
Theme and Participants at UNSA National Debate Championships 2025
This year’s event carries a significant and powerful theme: “Resilient, Patriotic and Responsible Youth for Good Governance.” This theme guides all the competitions and discussions throughout the week.
Students are excited to showcase their skills at the UNSA National Debate Championships 2025.
The championship has drawn a massive participation base. Over 1000 students are in attendance. They represent 147 secondary schools from all corners of Uganda. This wide representation highlights the national importance of the event.
Each participant at the UNSA National Debate Championships 2025 has worked hard to reach this level.
The focus for the 2025 debates and speeches is on pressing national issues. The motions cover a wide range of topics. Key among them are Democracy, Good Governance, Gender-Based Violence, and Public Health. A special emphasis is placed on the HIV response among young people.
The Path to UNSA National Debate Championships 2025
Qualifying for the UNSA nationals is a significant achievement. The process is designed to be highly competitive and inclusive. It begins at the district level.
The UNSA National Debate Championships 2025 not only tests debating skills but also encourages networking.
The legacy of the UNSA National Debate Championships 2025 will inspire future generations.
Different districts across Uganda first hold their own UNSA District Debate, Poetry, and Public Speech Championships. The best two schools from each district then progress to the national tournament. This year, the district competitions were planned for June and July.
However, the schedule was interrupted by the industrial action by arts teachers. Despite this challenge, several districts managed to successfully hold their qualifying events. This ensured that the national championship could proceed with a strong contingent of talented students.
A Look Back at Previous UNSA Championships
The UNSA National Championship has a rich and growing history. It has quickly become a premier event on the Ugandan academic calendar.
The 3rd edition was held just last year in 2024. It took place at Holy Cross Lake View Senior Secondary School in Wanyange, Jinja. That event hosted over 300 schools. After a fierce competition, Seeta High School, Mbalala, emerged as the national champions.
The 2nd edition was held at St. Lawrence Schools. Each year, the tournament grows in size and prestige. It continues to attract more schools and produce outstanding young orators and thinkers.