The 7th edition of the Luv FM High School Debate is heating up as schools across the Ashanti Region battle it out in qualifying debates to earn a coveted spot in the main contest.

Over 100 senior high schools are participating in the ongoing preliminary rounds. Divided into 4 Zones, this process will shortlist the most articulate and well-prepared schools for the main stage debate competition.

Contesting students are debating on a variety of topical national and global issues, all under strict judging criteria, focused on argument clarity, presentation skills, and teamwork.

A total of 20 schools will qualify for the competition, with five schools advancing from each zone.

Event Coordinator, Eric Nkoom, says this year’s contest has juicy prizes for excelling schools and debaters, including various scholarship opportunities, and encourages participants to deliver their best.

“This year, we had over a hundred schools coming on board. KNUST will be giving scholarships to this year’s winners. There are other scholarships to study in the US and Germany. We have much in stock for this year’s competition,” he said.

The debate, powered by LUV 99.5 FM, has, over the years built a reputation for nurturing critical thinking, public speaking, and civic awareness among senior high school students.

“Even though I was tense during the competition, I know I can do better, so all the schools should expect great things from us. I know my school will qualify,” said a debater from Kumasi Girls SHS.

“Today’s debate was educating, entertaining and interesting. Prempeh College expects nothing but the best. We’re definitely going to the finals,” a participant said.

The official launch of the 2025 Luv FM High School Debate is set for Friday, May 30 after the zonal contests.

It will be held at the KNUST E-learning Centre, formerly CCB Auditorium, where the final list of qualified schools, the debate schedule, and this year’s grand prize will be announced.