Blantyre Secondary School (BSS) has emerged victorious in the inaugural Blantyre City Public Speaking Competition for Secondary Schools held at Golden Peacock Hotel in Blantyre.
The competition drew 20 schools, with nine schools making it to the grand finale.
The exciting event, which ended with cheers and celebrations, saw Blessings Mphambala from BSS being named the overall winner, taking home a cash prize of K500,000.
He was followed by Eve Kaime from SWEMA Private Secondary School, who won K300,000, while Fly Katefa of Jacaranda Secondary School came third, walking away with K200,000.
BSS was also crowned the overall school champion, a win that their Head of Languages Department, Ndaluza Themu, described it as an encouragement for the learners.
“We have managed to reach this far because of hard work. Students researched a lot, practiced regularly and supported one another. This win is a morale booster for our school,” said Themu.
The competition organised by the Centre for Governance and Leadership (CEGOL) in collaboration with the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), aimed at helping students improve their public speaking, boost confidence and prepare for future leadership roles.
CEGOL Team Leader, Chimwemwe Kaonga, said the initiative was created to help students speak English confidently and think critically about national issues.
“We found that many students struggle with communication at university. This competition is a way to prepare them early and encourage them to raise their voices on issues that affect our country,” said Kaonga.
The Mayor of Blantyre City, Councillor Joseph Makwinja, who was the guest of honour, praised the competition, saying it will help students speak better English and become strong leaders.
Students in the final round tackled topics such as fighting corruption and how young people can help Malawi achieve Vision 2063, the country’s development dream.
The event was also supported by various organisations including the National Planning Commission (NPC), Kwera Fund, Anti-Corruption Bureau, NBS Bank, Maheu Beverage, and Golden Peacock Hotel.
