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The debate stage wasn’t just a forum for arguments; it was a battleground for policy, power, and innovative thought.
On September 30, 2025, the Ebonyi State University (EBSU) Permanent Site hosted the electrifying Grand Finale of the inaugural Tertiary Debate League (TDL), an initiative by One Youth Global. It wasn't just a competition; it was the birth of a new political and intellectual culture, attracting over 600 attendees, including students, young professionals, and secondary school pupils.
A Final Battle of Policy: Rural Health vs. Urban Advancement
The entire auditorium was packed, the atmosphere was electric, and the energy reached a fever pitch as the final motion was tabled. The TDL’s unique One Youth Debate Model blending traditional debate with high-stakes role-play simulation forced finalists to think like real policy-makers.
The final motion challenged the core of public health policy in Ebonyi:
MOTION: Should Ebonyi State now prioritize consolidating advanced urban healthcare facilities over shifting more resources toward strengthening rural primary healthcare access?
Teams squared off, arguing from the perspectives of the Commissioner for Health, a Hospital Administrator, a Rural Health Worker, and a Traditional Rural Council Representative. The result was a stunning display of empathy, strategy, and intellectual depth that earned a standing ovation from the audience.
After two intense semi-final rounds covering performance-based education funding and tuition fee regulation, the top speakers emerged to claim their share of the ₦1.1 million prize pool.
We proudly celebrate the inaugural TDL champions:
| Place | Name | Institution | Level/Discipline | Prize Money |
| 🥇 1st Place | Nwele Stanley | AE-FUNAI | Law (Final Year) | ₦500,000 |
| 🥈 2nd Place | Okoh Joshua | EBSU | Law (300 Level) | ₦300,000 |
| 🥉 3rd Place | Mba Ifeanyichukwu | EBSU | Medicine (400 Level) | ₦200,000 |
| ✨ 4th Place | Enu Deborah | EBSU | Medicine (400 Level) | ₦100,000 |
A huge congratulations to Stanley Nwele from AE-FUNAI, who clinched the title through his powerful command of policy and persuasive articulation! His victory is a testament to the talent fostered by institutions across Ebonyi.
The significance of the event was underscored by the presence of esteemed guests. Notably, Professor Ike Elechi Ogba, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of Ebonyi State University, graced the occasion and delivered a stirring keynote address, affirming the TDL’s role in developing Nigeria’s future thought leaders.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere was an incredible presentation by the Theatre Arts Department of AE FUNAI, proving that creativity and critical thought are two sides of the same coin.
At One Youth Global, we believe debate is more than words; it is a tool for raising leaders.
The Tertiary Debate League isn't just about the prize money or the applause, it’s about preparing students to step into the shoes of tomorrow’s presidents, diplomats, and policy-makers. The TDL model forces participants to see issues from multiple stakeholder perspectives, fostering the empathy and critical thinking needed to build a sustainable, peaceful, and prosperous future.
WATCH VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS HERE:
GRANDE FINALE HIGHLIGHTS: https://youtu.be/j-YYJOdBMk0
OCTO- FINALS: ht
