In a groundbreaking event organized by the Saint Augustine Agricultural Secondary School in Lungi, supported by the GEED Foundation, the power of female leadership took center stage in a riveting debate. The occasion marked the unveiling of a state-of-the-art podium funded by the GEED Foundation and the school’s Old Students Association, setting the stage for an electrifying exchange of ideas.

Two standout students, Victoria Y Conteh and Jaka Mansaray, emerged as the Best Debater and Second-Best Debater, respectively, captivating the audience with their eloquence and conviction. The motion, “Women are more responsible in leadership positions than men”, sparked intense discourse as four students, two males, and two females, articulated their perspectives with passion and poise.

The female debaters, with their compelling oratory and resonant arguments, outshone their male counterparts, clinching victory and garnering accolades. The event culminated in the presentation of cash prizes and certificates by the GEED Foundation team, led by Executive Director Asilia Jartue-Gilpin, in recognition of the participants’ exceptional performance.

This milestone event underscores the GEED Foundation’s commitment to nurturing a new generation of Sierra Leonean leaders equipped with essential public speaking and debating skills. Founded in 2006 by Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank, the GEED Foundation has been instrumental in promoting academic excellence and fostering leadership development across the country.

Notably, the organization has constructed modern podiums for public speaking and debating in schools across various districts, including Bo, Bonthe, and Tonkolili. Through strategic partnerships and initiatives, the GEED Foundation continues to empower students and enhance the quality of education in Sierra Leone.

The Education Club of the St. Augustine Agricultural Secondary School expressed its gratitude by presenting a certificate of appreciation to the GEED Foundation, recognizing their invaluable contribution to educational enrichment and youth empowerment.

As the echoes of this successful debate reverberate throughout the community, it serves as a testament to the transformative impact of empowering young leaders and championing gender equality in leadership roles.

The event was chaired by Sheku Putka Kamara, Managing Editor of the Expo Media Group who is also the National Secretary General of the St. Augustine Old Students; and a Part-Time Lecturer at Fourah Bay College, among other things…

 Copyright –Published in print in Expo Times Newspaper on Monday, May 13TH, 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)