For the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), the Pan-African Universities Debate Championship (PAUDC) in Lomé, Togo (December 3rd-11th, 2023) wasn't just a competition; it was a triumphant declaration of intellectual prowess and a thrilling glimpse into a future brimming with possibilities.
UHAS, renowned for its excellence in healthcare education, has shattered expectations by claiming a resounding 3rd place at this prestigious intercontinental tournament. This historic achievement marks the first time a UHAS team has reached such heights in the PAUDC's illustrious history, and it stands as a testament to the University's unwavering commitment to nurturing well-rounded, articulate, and globally aware future healthcare professionals.
The UHAS team, composed of Eziel Weitzmann Duku Johnson (Sixth year Doctor of Pharmacy student) and Archimedes Kwesi Donkor (Fifth year Medicine student), navigated a fierce battleground of 68 teams from universities across Africa, including powerhouses like Nigeria, South Africa, Rwanda, and Botswana. Through nine grueling preliminary rounds, then quarterfinals and semifinals, Eziel and Archimedes displayed exceptional critical thinking, persuasive eloquence, and an impressive grasp of diverse topics encompassing philosophy, economics, religion, international relations, and even science and technology.
However, the accolades did not stop there. Eziel’s individual brilliance propelled him to the Quarterfinals of the Public Speaking competition, while Archimedes’ keen ear and discerning mind earned him the coveted title of 9th Best Public Speaking Adjudicator in Africa. These individual achievements underscore the depth of talent within UHAS and its vibrant debate society, solidifying the University's place as a rising star on the continental debate scene.
This phenomenal display of intellectual prowess transcends mere academic accomplishment. It signifies a paradigm shift. UHAS is no longer solely the domain of medical and pharmaceutical excellence; it is a breeding ground for exceptional communicators, critical thinkers, and global citizens equipped to tackle the complex challenges of the 21st century. The PAUDC victory serves as a beacon of inspiration, not just for students within UHAS, but for aspiring debaters and young minds across Africa, demonstrating that intellectual achievement knows no bounds, and that even within the halls of healthcare education, voices can rise to the global stage and challenge the status quo.
As UHAS celebrates this historic feat, one thing is certain: this is not the end of the journey, but the exhilarating beginning of a new chapter. The echoes of victory at Lomé will resonate through the halls of UHAS, fueling the flames of intellectual curiosity and inspiring future generations to embrace the power of debate, public speaking, and critical thinking. The world is watching, and UHAS is ready to answer the call, one eloquent argument at a time.
Congratulations to the UHAS Debate Society for this amazing feat. May your voices continue to soar, shaping a brighter future for UHAS and for Africa as a whole.