•Upper Hill High School
In a bid to empower the next generation with the tools to tackle pressing environmental issues, Asharami Synergy Kenya Limited, a subsidiary of Sahara Group, recently hosted its inaugural debate competition. The event, held at KCA University in Nairobi, showcased the passionate arguments and innovative solutions proposed by secondary school students on topics ranging from accountability for environmental harm to the immediate banning of plastics worldwide.
Five schools, including Upper Hill Boys High School, The Alliance High School, Alliance Girls High School, Moi Girls School Nairobi, and State House Girls School Nairobi, participated in the competition. After rigorous rounds of debate, Upper Hill Boys High School emerged as the Best Debate Team, with State Girls High School and The Alliance High School securing second and third place respectively.
Debola Adesanya, Country Manager of Asharami Synergy Kenya, emphasised the importance of engaging young Kenyans in discussions about energy transition and environmental preservation. He stressed that the future of the planet hinges on the involvement of all stakeholders, particularly youths.
Adesanya stated, “The debate platform is our contribution to ensuring students know and understand these issues to enable them to proffer possible solutions.”
As part of its commitment to education and environmental stewardship, Asharami Synergy Kenya rewarded winning teams with trophies, while outstanding speakers received laptops and tablets.
Lavinah Gonah, Operations Supervisor at Asharami Synergy Kenya, commended the students and their teachers for their outstanding performance and reiterated the company’s dedication to providing platforms for youth engagement.
Lead judge Winnie Otieno praised the event as an excellent opportunity to drive environmental sustainability in Kenya. She emphasised the value of empowering students to share their views and expressed gratitude to Asharami and Sahara Group for their support.
Best Male Speaker Ryan Theuri of Upper Hill Boys High School highlighted the significance of youth participation in addressing environmental challenges, emphasising the impact of their actions on future generations.
Best Female Speaker Titiana Ogolla of State House Girls School focussed on the importance of preparing youth for leadership roles in environmental stewardship. She underscored the role of today’s youth in shaping the future and thanked Sahara Group and Asharami Synergy for the opportunity.
Outstanding Speaker of the day Obed Imbosi of Upper Hill Boys High School applauded the initiative for providing a platform for Kenyan children to discuss critical environmental issues and emphasised its significance to the country’s future.
The Asharami Synergy Kenya Debate Competition not only provided a platform for students to voice their concerns but also fostered a sense of responsibility and empowerment among the youth. By equipping them with the knowledge and skills to address environmental challenges, the competition serves as a catalyst for positive change and sustainable development in Kenya.