Swakopmund: Team Otjozondjupa won the National Debate Championships , which concluded at Swakopmund on Tuesday . The competition was organised by the Namibian Schools Debating Association ( NSDA ), a non – profit making organisation operating under the Ministry of Education , Arts and Culture , and consisted of 14 teams from all regions which were made up of learners from various schools . Otjozondjupa won unanimously against Omusati after the two teams debated on the motion on whether or not to remove VIP convoys ’ privileges , which the winning team opposed . Team Ohangwena emerged third in the competition sponsored by the Motor Vehicle Association ( MVA ) Fund . The championships commenced on Saturday and included discussions and debates on vital themes concerning road safety in Namibia . Erongo Region Governor Neville Andr é Itope in a speech delivered on his behalf noted that a review of the VIP convoy privileges is warranted to ensure that it is not abused and does not contribute to unsafe practices on
national roads . “ While I understand the need for security and efficiency in certain cases , we must question whether these convoys set a good example for ordinary citizens . If we are to create a culture of road safety , we must ensure that everyone , regardless of status , adheres to the same road safety regulations ,” he emphasised . MVA Fund Manager for Accident and Injury Prevention , Jones Lutombi , said debating the topic encourages critical thinking and empowers students to explore the complexities of road safety . “ It challenges them to consider how education , infrastructure , enforcement , and community engagement all play roles in protecting pedestrians . While there are challenges to ensuring pedestrian safety , there are also countless opportunities for solutions , from improving crosswalks and traffic signals , to advocating for stricter enforcement of traffic laws ,” he said . NSDA president Dr Elizabeth Namundjebo explained that the competition starts at school level and then moves on to cl
uster level , circuit level and regional level . Eventually , teams are selected to represent their regions at the national level . Namundjebo noted that public speaking and debate can help to inspire people and change their perspectives on certain issues.

Source: The Namibia News Agency