The ULK Center for Languages (CELA) CLUB organised the two-day 2025 Interdepartmental Debate Tournaments in line with the MINEDUC and HEC policy of enhancing the mastery of English Language among higher learning institutions. Kigali Independent University ULK continues to lead in fostering debating and public speaking through the CELA and other ongoing initiatives that were kicked off 14 years ago. The debate motions centered around education, global politics and economy, and various ongoing crises affecting different parts of the globe. The Economics, Accounting and Finance departments from the School of Economics and Business Studies, Development Studies department from the School of Social Sciences, Computer Science (Networking) department from the School of Science and Technology, Sciences (Biology and Chemistry) department from the School of Education, Law department from the School of Law, and Electrical Technology from the ULK Polytechnic Institute. 

Some participants during the debate

 

Uwera Sauda, the Director of ULK CELA, reiterated the centre’s aim to equip CELA Club members with the ability to face the world unshakably saying “The truth is that debate is more than just arguing different viewpoints, it’s about sharpening the ability of  participants to think critically, articulate thoughts clearly, and engage in meaningful discussions that bring about changes. In a world filled with challenges, the skills developed within debating are the very tools that shape future leaders.”

The director of ULK CELA Uwera Sauda giving out certificates

 

John Blag, the President of the ULK Debate Club invited all students to this extracurricular activity that will enable them to achieve their goals as they combine skills gained in their respective departments with critical thinking and effective communication.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor in Charge of Academics  Prof. Martins Onyekwelu addressing participants

The Deputy Vice Chancellor in Charge of Academics  Prof. Martins Onyekwelu urged all students to take full advantage of such opportunities the university puts in place saying “Once you eat alone, you die alone. Invite your friends to the club and benefit together”. He continued explaining that soft skills, including these debate and public speaking skills don’t have their particular modules in their curricula. He said that it is from these rooms that the university puts in place that they enhance such skills. He completed his speech promising strong support of the university in growing the club. 

The ULK Guild Council Delegate, SG Ketsia Mutamba, ensured the full support of the ULK Guild Council in her message stating “We recognise the vital role debate plays in academic and personal growth. That’s why we, ULK Students’ Guild, are committed to supporting this club in any ways that we can, whether it’s by providing more platforms for competitions, encouraging greater participants or ensuring that every voice in this room is heard and valued.” The team from the Department of Economics won the first spot, the Department of Computer Science, the champion of last year’s competitions, was the 1st Runner-up and the Department of Law, the 3rd Runner-up.