The University of Professional Studies Accra (UPSA) Debate Club has won this year’s Forestry Commission competition held in Accra.
UPSA scored 81 per cent to defeat the University of Ghana Debate Club, which obtained 78 per cent.
UPSA contestants received GH¢20,000, a plaque, a Samsung tablet, a certificate, a trophy and Forestry Commission-branded T-shirts.
The University of Ghana contestants received GH¢15,000, a trophy, a certificate, a Samsung tablet and Forestry Commission-branded T-shirts.
The motion for the debate was: “The economic value of forests should be measured solely in terms of timber and non-timber forest products.”
The competition formed part of activities to mark this year’s International Day of Forests, observed annually on March 21.
It was organised by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in collaboration with the Forestry Commission on the theme: “Forests and Economies,” highlighting the role of forests in sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction.
Mr Timothy Ataboadey Awotiirim, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, expressed satisfaction with the performance of the contestants.
He said the Commission would launch this year’s Tree for Life initiative to promote awareness of tree planting and commended the contestants for their performance.
“The debate is targeted at the youth who will be the future front liners of the various institutions, and it is important that they understand forest protection and its associated issues.
“The FC is ready to offer help toward preparations for the debate competition. I wish you well,” he said.
Mr Awotiirim called on the public to support and develop students to prepare them adequately for such presentations and to help unearth their potential.
He said environmental destruction, including illegal mining, had adversely affected the country’s ecology and required urgent attention.
The International Day of Forests is marked globally to raise awareness of the importance of trees, forests and trees outside forest areas.
Member countries are encouraged to organise local and national activities on forest protection and tree planting to commemorate the day.
Contestants were assessed based on content, method and delivery.
By Kodjo Adams
