Debate isn’t just about arguing for or against a motion. It’s about clarity, courage, and discovering your voice in a world that often tries to quiet it. And for many SHS girls in Ghana, it’s changing everything.
This blog explores how debate helps these young women grow in confidence, sharpen their thinking, and boldly take up space — not just on stage, but in everyday life.
Debate Builds Voices, Not Just Arguments
Debate is more than just arguing with words. When most people hear “debate,” they think of people shouting over each other or trying to prove they’re right. But the real debate, especially for young girls in SHS, is so much more than that.
Schools are increasingly seeing debate as a way to help SHS girls grow into strong leaders who are ready to face challenges. For many girls, the debate becomes a life-changing skill, not just for school, but for life.
Here’s how debate helps students to:
- Think critically about real-world issues
- Speak clearly and confidently
- Listen actively and respond with respect
- Back your ideas with facts, not just feelings
- Stand your ground, even when it’s tough
Confidence Starts with a Mic and a Platform
One of the most powerful things about debate is that it permits girls to be heard.
They learn it’s okay to raise a hand.
It’s okay to challenge an idea.
It’s okay to say, “Here’s what I think — and here’s why.”
Suddenly, the quiet girl at the back of the class becomes the one commanding attention at the front of the room. Her voice, once shaky, becomes steady. Her ideas, once whispered, become powerful.
When girls step onto the debate stage regularly, they become more comfortable talking in front of people. It’s like lifting a heavy weight and realising it’s easier than it looked.
Overcoming Fear and Nervousness
Most girls don’t step onto the debate stage bursting with confidence. Many start nervously, worried about messing up, forgetting their points, or being judged. It’s completely normal. But with the right coaching and support, that fear doesn’t last forever.
Debate coaches often focus on small but powerful wins: helping SHS girls practice their arguments out loud, teaching simple breathing exercises to calm their nerves, and creating a safe space where mistakes are seen as part of the learning journey.
Slowly but surely, the fear fades and is replaced by something stronger—confidence.
Debate as a Platform for Personal and Academic Growth
In debate, you learn to present ideas clearly and listen actively. These are useful in everyday conversations and class discussions.
Want to argue your point better? Practice summarising your thoughts and asking questions during debates. These skills help with essays, presentations, and even group projects.
Enhancing Leadership and Teamwork
Being part of a debate team means taking on roles like team captain or researcher. These positions develop leadership.
Teamwork becomes second nature when members share ideas and prepare together. Girls learn how to motivate each other and work toward a common goal.
Cultivating Research and Analytical Abilities
Good debates depend on strong facts. Girls tend to improve at finding trustworthy sources and organising data. This involves utilising libraries, online resources, and conducting interviews to gather evidence.
Over time, they become more skilled at analysing information, which boosts their academic performance.
Debate as a Catalyst for Social Change and Career Development
Debate topics often cover important issues like women’s rights, education, or poverty. Girls get to voice their opinions on topics that matter.
Many successful women leaders, like former politicians or activists, started in debate clubs. Their voices grew stronger because they learned to speak up early on.
How Debate Helps Build a Foundation for Future Careers
Debate trains skills valuable in careers like law, politics, media, and business. Clear speech, quick thinking, and confidence are assets in any job.
Teachers and industry leaders see debate experience as a stepping stone for future success. Beyond public speaking, it develops problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork—traits that employers actively look for. Girls who debate often grow into roles where they advocate, negotiate, and lead with clarity.
Whether it’s presenting a case in court, pitching a business idea, or managing teams, the foundation built in debate prepares students to thrive in competitive professional spaces.
How Debate Helps to Inspire Girls to Become Change Makers
Many girls who debated in SHS years later lead community efforts. They advocate for change on issues they care about.
Their experiences teach them that their voice can make a difference. That confidence keeps growing, inspiring others to speak out too.
Practical Steps to Encourage SHS Girls to Engage in Debate
Schools can start by creating clubs or weekly debate sessions. Choose formats like policy or parliamentary debates that are easy for beginners. Encourage topics like student rights, local issues, or global challenges. Make debate fun and accessible for all girls.
Providing Mentorship and Training Opportunities
Mentors from local debate groups or teachers can guide new debaters. Workshops help sharpen skills and boost motivation.
Long-term mentorship keeps girls engaged and eager to improve.
Integrating Debate into the Curriculum
Teachers can include debate activities in regular lessons. Assign projects that ask students to argue sides of a topic or analyse current events.
This approach makes debating part of everyday learning, not just an extra activity.
Conclusion
Debate is a powerful tool that can transform SHS girls into confident, articulate, and brave individuals. It shapes their personal growth, improves academic performance, and prepares them for leadership roles.
When girls speak boldly, they open doors to endless opportunities. Schools, teachers, and parents must support debate programs because every girl deserves to find her voice. Encourage her to step up, speak out, and stay bold—her future depends on it.
This is exactly how debate helps shape a generation of young women ready to lead, inspire, and make lasting change.
Want to support more girls in finding their voice?
The National Girls’ Speech and Debate Championship (NGSDC) offers more than just debate competitions — including speech programs, public speaking workshops, and empowering talk shows for young women. Learn how their initiatives are helping SHS girls across Ghana build confidence and leadership skills.
