Abuja: The Executive Director of CHEN Teen and Youth Development Initiative, Dr. Olushola Oresanya, highlighted the importance of equipping young people with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the emerging artificial intelligence (AI) era during the 2026 Abuja Schools Debate Tournament and Seminar held on Wednesday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event, themed ‘Powering Tomorrow: Are Africa’s Youth Prepared to Lead and Compete in the Global Artificial Intelligence Era?’, gathered students from public and private secondary schools, educators, government officials, and development partners. Oresanya emphasized that the annual debate tournament aims to provide a platform for young people to discuss pertinent issues and contribute to societal development. She noted that the competition encourages students to express their views on contemporary issues while developing critical thinking, research, and leadership skills.
Oresanya stated that participants received training in public speakin
g and research prior to the competition. This year’s edition adopted the World Debate Competition format to expose students to international debating standards. The initiative, organized in partnership with the Davida Omosanmi Empowerment Foundation (DOE Foundation), aims to prepare students for global opportunities. Winners will have the chance to participate in international debate platforms and gain exposure to global networks.
She explained that the choice of artificial intelligence as this year’s focus was informed by its increasing impact on education, employment, and daily life. Oresanya stressed that AI presents significant opportunities for young people, who need to learn how to engage with it appropriately and ethically. Outstanding students will also receive sponsorship to register on an international debate platform.
Director of Education and Social Development at the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Depsan Kwande, also spoke at the event. Represented by Mrs. Grace Ojeaburu, a deputy
director in the ministry, Kwande noted the government’s recognition of AI’s importance in education, entrepreneurship, and employment generation. The ministry has launched initiatives to help youths acquire AI-related knowledge and apply it in agriculture, entrepreneurship, and innovation. The ministry remains committed to supporting programs that empower youths with relevant digital and technological competencies.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that 20 schools participated in the competition, with Lela Blossoms School emerging as the winner. Joachcare Academy and Focus High School secured second and third places, respectively. Cash prizes of N100,000, N70,000, and N50,000 were awarded to the first, second, and third-place winners, respectively, along with 20 percent tuition scholarships.