Press Releases

Georgetown, Guyana – The Upper East Coast Youth Federation (UPEC) has secured the first coveted spot in the Final of the 2025 Speaker’s National Youth Debating Competition, following a commanding victory over the St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church Youth Group.

In a compelling virtual showdown held at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 24, the two teams went head-to-head on the moot: “Pacifism is unrealistic in a world of aggressive states.” Representing the Proposition side, the Upper East Coast Youth Federation demonstrated superior articulation and argumentation, emerging victorious with an average score of 190.2 points to their opponents’ 159.2.

Judges commended both teams for their rigorous research and passion for the subject matter, but cautioned against relying on verbatim content sourced online. They also emphasised the importance of vocal dynamics—mechanics, tone, pitch, and volume—as essential tools in effective oratory, while advising teams to exercise restraint in redefining the moot.

Ms. Marinella Glasgow of the Upper East Coast Youth Federation was awarded Best Debater of the match. Her exceptional eloquence, critical insight, and commanding presence earned praise from the judging panel and online spectators alike.

Although with the defeat, the St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church Youth Group will have another opportunity to advance to the Final when they face the Ruimveldt Life Improvement Centre Youth Ministries in Match 2 of the Semifinals.

The Upper East Coast Youth Federation now awaits the outcome of that matchup, set for Friday, June 27, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., to determine their opponent in the championship round.

Members of the public are encouraged to tune in live via the Parliament of Guyana’s official Website, Facebook, and YouTube pages to follow this thrilling conclusion to the 2025 Speaker’s National Youth Debating Competition.

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