Young participants in the Speaker’s National Youth Debating Competition 2026 have been encouraged to use the platform to strengthen the skills needed for future careers, leadership, and personal development.
Addressing the competition on Tuesday, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Charles Ramson congratulated the winning team, Helpful Hands, while commending all of the young debaters for their dedication and participation.
He noted that the annual competition continues to make a significant contribution to youth development by helping participants build valuable life skills.
“It has done a lot to develop young people and also start to impart some important skills that you will need throughout your life,” the minister said.
Minister Ramson also encouraged students to carefully consider their educational and career choices, emphasizing the importance of developing skills that meet the evolving demands of the labour market.
“There is a direct correlation with the skills that you are acquiring and the needs and the demands of the market.”
He further reminded the participants that they are integral to Guyana’s future development.
“You guys are the future and I want you to know we need every single one of you,” he added.
Meanwhile, Minister of Education Sonia Parag underscored the value of the debating competition in fostering confidence and effective communication, noting that public speaking is an essential skill across a wide range of professions.
“This gives you the exposure that you need. If you are going into politics or if it is that you would like to get into a career, there is going to be a lot of public speaking,” she said.
Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning Keoma Griffith also encouraged the young participants to fully embrace the opportunity before them.
“Don’t take this moment for granted,” he told the young debaters.
This year’s debate centred on the motion, “Countries should treat AI systems as a national security asset,” challenging participants to explore both the opportunities and risks associated with artificial intelligence while enhancing their research, critical thinking, and public speaking skills.
