THE intellectual arena was ablaze this past weekend as St George’s and Christian Brothers College (CBC) dominated the 2025 CBZ National Schools Debate Tournament, senior and junior categories at Dominican Convent in Harare over the weekend.
A total of 21 schools participated in the event, which returned after a two-year hiatus. It was last held in 2023.
Title sponsor, CBZ Bank, reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing young minds by unveiling a US$30 000 package for this year's edition, a clear testament to the tournament's growing stature and impact.
The senior competition was a fiercely contested affair, with St George's College ultimately clinching the coveted title.
Oriel Boys High displayed remarkable debating acumen to secure the second spot, while Dominican Convent Bulawayo rounded out the top three, showcasing the depth of talent across the country.
Individual brilliance was also celebrated in the senior individual category, with Rudo Katesi of St George's College being crowned the top debater. Makaita Makwanya from St Ignatius College and Christian Nhika, also of St George's College, were placed second and third, respectively.
The junior competition saw Christian Brothers College emerge as the champions, closely followed by St Ignatius College and the host school, Dominican Convent Harare, which secured second and third places, respectively.
In the individual junior category, Munotida Nyamanhindi of Dominican Convent Harare shone brightest. Gamuchirai Musakasa from Kriste Mambo and Vimbainashe Gwete, also from Dominican Convent Harare, secured second and third positions, respectively.
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In her closing remarks, tournament director and host school head Sister Kudzai Mutsure said she was impressed by the level of competition displayed by the participating schools.
"It is both an honour and a privilege to stand before you today after what has been a truly inspiring and intellectually enriching edition of the CBZ Schools Debate Championships," she said.
"This year, we welcomed 21 schools from across the country and we witnessed an incredible showcase of knowledge exchange, meaningful discourse and dynamic social interaction. After the break we experienced in 2024, it brings me immense joy to see this tournament return, not only revitalised but on a much larger scale and with even greater impact.
"This growth is made possible by our amazing partnership with CBZ. Their deep and unwavering commitment to education has taken this initiative to new heights. One of the most exciting milestones this year was the pre-tournament workshop we hosted — bringing together 10 schools from 9 provinces to familiarise themselves with the World Schools Debating Championship model," Sister Mutsure said.
