Africa-Press – Eswatini. Four sharp-tongued teens from Sisekelo High School are about to put Africa on the global debate map and they’re doing it in style. The school’s Junior Debate Team has booked their ticket to the prestigious International Competition for Young Debaters (ICYD), hosted at none other than the historic Cambridge Union in the UK.
Come May 3, 2025, Sinezelwe Sithole, Glendah Matjaka, Nosipho Dlamini, and Siphiwe Mavimbela will step up to the mic, not just for Eswatini, but for the whole of Africa, as they represent the continent alongside teams from Malawi and Zimbabwe.
Behind them stand two guiding stars, senior debaters Nelisa Magagula and Nancy Magombedze, who will serve as coaches, ensuring the team keeps its cool under the Cambridge lights.
Sisekelo High School has long been schooling the world in the art of argument, and this latest feat only adds fuel to the fire. From their stellar run at last year’s Cambridge and Oxford Union debates to clinching the crown at the Moot Court competition in Romania, this isn’t just a streak, it’s a storm.
At a glittering send-off, Managing Director of Ubombo Sugar, Muzi Siyaya, didn’t hold back on the praise.
“You’re not just students anymore, you’re ambassadors of a nation,” Siyaya declared. “We are immensely proud of your achievements. You inspire us all.”
He urged the young thinkers to hold their own against the world’s best, reminding them that debating in the British Parliamentary format would test not just their intellect, but their resilience and teamwork.
“You’ve shown what discipline and dedication can achieve. Carry those values with you,” he said.
Sisekelo’s principal, Winile Primrose Dlamini, could hardly contain her pride. “This isn’t just a trip, it’s a triumph,” she said. “Our students have earned this. It’s a win for the school, the parents, the teachers, and the entire Eswatini community.”
She gave a special shout-out to debate patrons Tsikisai and Mvubu, who have been instrumental in grooming the team for this world-class showdown.
And they’re not going it alone. Sisekelo extended heartfelt thanks to Ubombo Sugar for funding the journey, as well as other supportive partners. Ideas Matter Consultancy, the ICYD regional partner in Africa, was also praised for opening international doors for young African minds.
ICYD is no small playground. It’s where future leaders, thinkers, and changemakers cut their teeth. Held alternately at Cambridge and Oxford, the competition attracts brilliant under-15s from across the globe, sharpening their skills in critical thinking, public speaking, and diplomacy.
As the countdown begins, the Sisekelo foursome will carry more than debate scripts in their luggage, they’ll carry the hopes of a continent that’s hungry for good news, proud of its youth, and ready to cheer on Africa’s future, one argument at a time.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
