By Margaret Kamba
The achievements by Zimbabwe's Head of State, His Excellency Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa are being recognized beyond our borders with the recently published book, 'A life of Sacrifice," featured at the Southern Africa Universities Debate Championships.
During the Championships, the University of Botswana Library received a generous donation of books worth US$3000 from the Government of Zimbabwe.
Speaking during that debate, ZANU PF Youth League Political Commissar Cde Taurai Kandishaya said the platform provided an exchange of ideas which must now reflect in society.
"This event has shown us the incredible talent and ideas that thrive within our universities. It reminds us how important it is to bring these ideas into the mainstream of our society. We are here to celebrate the power of ideas, the spirit of healthy debate, and our commitment to thinking critically," Cde Kandishaya said.
"The debates we have seen over the past few days have been truly inspiring. They show us that seeking knowledge and sharing different perspectives are key to making progress.
"In today’s rapidly changing world, we face many new challenges—inequality, poverty, discrimination, climate change, and technological issues. These problems require not just solutions but a new way of thinking. We must adopt new and efficient thought processes to tackle these issues head-on."
Cde Kandishaya added that the new mindset registered must sift its way into everyday life.
"The debates we have engaged in provide a perfect example of this new mindset. They show that through respectful dialogue and careful analysis, we can find the way to a better future. It is important that the rich intellectual culture we have here makes its way into everyday life," he said.
"We need to connect what we discuss in universities to real-world actions. This is why we want to build strong relationships with the debate community. Together, we can spread the culture and spirit of debate throughout society, helping more people to think critically and engage with the world around them."
Cde Kandishaya took time to appreciate the scheduled handover of the SADC Chairmanship to President Mnangagwa.
"I am also excited to mention that Zimbabwe, under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa is about to take on the Chairmanship of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). This role opens new opportunities for our nation to strengthen our engagements and ensure that no one and no place is left behind," he said.
"To our amazing debaters, you are the future of your communities. You are the ones who can bring change and make a difference. Use your talents and voices to address the pressing issues of our time—inequality, poverty, discrimination, climate change, and the challenges brought by technology. Know that we are here to support you in this mission. Together, we can build a society where critical thinking and open dialogue are the norms, and where everyone has a chance to contribute to the common good.
"As we celebrate the end of this fantastic competition, let us also look forward with hope and determination. Let us commit to nurturing the intellectual culture we have seen here today and spreading its benefits far and wide."
Zimbabwean student George Mhlanga from University of Zimbabwe won Overall Best Speaker of the Tournament.
University of Botswana (UB) students, Kgotla Tshimologo and Wetsho Letang, clinched the 1st English Second Language (ESL) Award at the Southern Africa Universities Debate Championship (SAUDC) held at the UB Conference Centre on the 13th of July 2024.
Among their achievements, Kgotla Tshimologo was honoured with the 10th Best Speaker Debate Award, while Wetsho Letang secured the 4th Best Speaker Debate Award. Other UB students who excelled include Ruby Njonde, who received the 5th Best Public Speaking Award and was recognised as the Best Speaker in English Second Language. Neo Ruth Selilo earned the 2nd Best Speaker English Second Language Award while Lesogo Mokone was honoured with the 10th Best Debate Adjudicator Award.
At least 350 participants from seven countries took part.