Ten young debaters have emerged from the Ashanti Region to compete with other students in the national finals of the public speaking contest. This year’s competition holding on Saturday, March 26, involves schools from the Brong Ahafo, Greater Accra, Eastern and Ashanti regions. The Young Debaters (TYD) is the local version of the International Public Speaking Competition which is organised by the English Speaking Union of the UK, to promote global co-operation and understanding through the English language. The competition encourages speakers from Senior High Schools to think rigorously and critically, whilst promoting problem-solving and innovative thinking. The theme for this year is ‘Lessons For the Future’ and speakers will address their chosen topics which relate to the theme in any way they choose. The Young Debaters is targeted at and opened to all Senior High Schools in Ghana. Winners in the Ashanti regional debate held in Kumasi were from the International Community School, Joy Standard School, Kumasi High, KNUST Senior High, Kumasi Academy and Kumasi Girls Senior High School. Others are Opoku Ware School, Prempeh College, Yaa Asantewaa Girls and Kumasi Anglican Senior High School. Northern Sector Manager of the British Council, Bridget Adu Gyamfi was impressed at the submissions by the competitors. “They’ve shown great learning and understanding of issues around the world… I feel they’re well composed and with a little grooming, the sky is the limit. They should be able to come back with the winner from the Ashanti region”, she told Luv FM. The winner of The Young Debaters will represent Ghana at the International Public Speaking Competition in London in May, 2011. Last year, Phoebe Priscilla Amoako of Aburi Girls emerged the winner of the maiden edition. The Young Debaters is organized by Essence Communications and supported by the British Council, Cadbury’s Richoco, Atlas Car Rentals, Cediwear, Busy Internet, LUV FM and JOY FM and Myjoyonline.com. Story by Kofi Adu Domfeh/Luv Fm/Ghana