Three African students shine at the European Union debate contest

.., top three winners to visit Poland

African university students made remarkable impacts at the maiden youth debate contest organised by the European Union for students under 25, attended by representatives from, secondary and university students, civil society, academia, media, and the private sector.

Three Tanzanian university students emerged as winners at the European Union (EU) Youth Debate Contest, earning a fully sponsored trip to Poland, courtesy of the Embassy of Poland in Tanzania.

According to the delegation of the European Union to the United Republic of Tanzania and the East African Community report; “Careen Ndika from the University of Dar es Salaam emerged as the overall best speaker, while Diana Shabani from Dar es Salaam Tumaini University and Kijafaraja Maduhu from the University of Dar es Salaam were named runners-up.”

The three, the report said, will travel to Poland later this year to participate in an educational and cultural study visit.

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Ndika, the overall winner reflecting on the significance of the experience said;

“Winning this competition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of every participant. This contest has shown us the power of structured debate and the impact of well-articulated ideas. I am honoured to be among the winners and look forward to the journey ahead,” she said.

The live debate was held on January 30 and 31, 2025, at the University of Dar es Salaam Library Auditorium with contestants who made the 20 finalists list assembled to discuss the motion: “Having your own business guarantees a more sustainable income than a regular job.”

A team comprised of Erick Kaja, Kijafaraja Maduhu, Mary Kibira, Timothy Jeremiah, and Careen Ndika which opposed the motion won the debate.

Baruani Mshale, director of learning and planning at Twaweza and the Chief Judge of the contest, applauded the participants’ strong arguments and historical awareness.

“This debate shattered the myth that Tanzanians cannot communicate effectively. The students skillfully connected history with present challenges, demonstrating critical thinking that is crucial for shaping the future,” he said.

The EU Youth Debate Contest 2025 was launched on November 18, 2024, as part of the European Union’s youth engagement efforts to involve young Tanzanians in discussions on socio-economic development.

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The competition attracted over 400 applicants, with 100 participants selected for a social media debate challenge, which ran from December 15 to 30, 2024. Following this phase, the top 20 finalists advanced to the live debate rounds.

Christine Grau, the EU ambassador to Tanzania speaking at the event, emphasised the importance of fostering critical thinking among young people.
“The European Union is proud to support initiatives like this. Young people form the majority in Tanzania and globally, and we are impressed by their talent and fresh ideas. We hope to make this an annual event, reaching even more students and fostering a culture of debate in Tanzania,” she said.

The Polish Embassy, a key partner in the initiative, expressed its commitment to supporting youth development and empowerment in Tanzania.
Katarzyna Sobiecka, the acting Polish ambassador to Tanzania speaking at event said; “We believe in building people-to-people connections, as networking often leads to new opportunities.

“As the Embassy of Poland, we are delighted to offer the top three winners an educational and cultural trip to Poland this summer, We will ensure that their experience is both enjoyable and enriching.”
The contest is set to become an annual event, equipping Tanzanian students with essential skills in public speaking, critical thinking, and leadership.