Bodi, Juaboso, and Bibiani SHS Qualify for National Public Speaking Competition as Coordinators Stress Cultural Values

The National Public Speaking Competition (NPSC) has gathered momentum across Ghana as regional qualifiers identify the next generation of eloquent leaders while emphasizing the intersection of communication and traditional values. In the Western North Region, Sefwi Bodi, Juaboso, and Bibiani Senior High Schools (SHS) have successfully secured their spots for the national finals scheduled for October 2, 2026, in Accra. This initiative, championed by the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, seeks to bolster the confidence and critical thinking abilities of students through structured competitive debate and oratory.

During the Western North regional contest held in Sefwi Wiawso, Juaboso SHS emerged as a formidable contender with 236 points, followed by Bibiani SHS with 222 points and Sefwi Bodi SHS with 191 points. Paul Arthur, the Western North Regional Culture Coordinator, expressed high satisfaction with the students' performances and noted plans to further enrich the program by involving traditional leaders in future iterations. The competition is designed not only to test linguistic prowess but also to prepare students for the complexities of national discourse and leadership.

Simultaneously, the Central Regional leg of the competition, held at Mfantsiman Girls Senior High School, served as a platform for educational leaders to address the evolving challenges of youth communication. Wisdom Adomina, the Central Regional Culture Coordinator, urged the participating students from twelve different schools to strike a balance between the right to free expression and the preservation of Ghanaian cultural values. He specifically highlighted the importance of maintaining respect toward the elderly and being mindful of cultural expectations when articulating opinions in public forums.

Beyond the scores and trophies, educators at the events raised concerns regarding the impact of digital trends on student development. Mr. Adomina pointed to a perceived decline in public speaking and critical thinking skills, which he attributed to an over-reliance on social media. By redirecting focus toward the NPSC, organizers hope to provide a constructive alternative that fosters genuine communication skills. As the winners from the Western North and Central regions prepare for the grand finale in Accra, the competition continues to serve as a critical bridge between academic learning and the practical application of Ghanaian cultural ethics.