Here’s a bold statement: The future of Ghana’s youth leadership was on full display at the Speak Up 1.0 grand finale, and it’s more inspiring than you might think. Ashaiman Senior High School (SHS) and Accra Wesley Girls SHS stole the spotlight at this groundbreaking interschool debate and public speaking competition, organized by the Ghana Education Service (GES) in collaboration with T-TEL and Speech Forces. But here’s where it gets even more compelling—this wasn’t just about winning trophies; it was about amplifying young voices to tackle pressing issues like digital safety and responsible online behavior.
Held on December 10, 2025, at the prestigious University of Ghana Business School, the event marked the culmination of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. It wasn’t just a competition; it was a movement. Six senior high schools—Accra Wesley Girls, Ashaiman SHS, Christian Methodist SHS, Ngleshie Amanfro SHS, O’Reilly SHS, and Amasaman SHTS—battled it out, showcasing their skills as part of the Speech Club and Career Development Initiative piloted by GES through T-TEL and Speech Forces.
Ashaiman SHS emerged as the Debate Championship winner after weeks of intense rounds, with Ngleshie Amanfro SHS securing the first runner-up spot. In the Public Speaking segment, Accra Wesley Girls SHS claimed the Prepared Speech award, while Ngleshie Amanfro SHS took home the Impromptu Speech crown. But this is the part most people miss—these victories weren’t just about individual glory; they were about equipping students with tools to become responsible citizens and future leaders.
Mrs. Constance Baba Boateng, Language Coordinator at the Greater Accra GES Directorate, emphasized the broader vision: “Speak Up 1.0 aligns with our goal of nurturing confident, thoughtful, and responsible learners who can engage with issues shaping their lives.” Controversial question: Can public speaking and debate truly transform young minds into effective leaders, or is it just another extracurricular activity?
Marjorie Tackie, T-TEL’s Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Coordinator, added a critical perspective, urging students to reflect on their digital habits and the long-term consequences of online harm, especially for vulnerable groups. Meanwhile, Mr. Isaac Nyamekye Boakye, Director of Programs at Speech Forces, highlighted the initiative’s intentional focus on students who often lack access to leadership development platforms. “By teaching public speaking, logical reasoning, and teamwork, we’re not just building skills—we’re shaping leaders who can positively impact society,” he said.
Beyond the accolades, Speak Up 1.0 has sparked a youth advocacy movement, using dialogue, creativity, and leadership to champion safer digital spaces across Ghana. And here’s a thought-provoking question for you: In a world dominated by digital communication, are we doing enough to prepare our youth for the challenges and responsibilities that come with it?
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