Students from various schools following a debate training session at Irene School, Maralal.
As the Iron sharpens another iron,
So can the wise be taught wisdom,
Come let us reason together,
Before you pass judgement to an entire generation……….
Think of the current situation in Syria, Yemen, DRC, Somalia, Northern Nigeria, Kenya PEV (2007), Rwanda(1994)-animosity, brutality, dejection. Brothers up in arms against brothers, sisters baying for their mothers blood. For the mere reason that people could not amicably agree on a way forward. So then, it got me thinking loud, how do we avert so much mayhem. What if everyone got a chance to openly express their thoughts and feelings verbally? Suppose everyone cared to listen to dissenting opinions? And can people learn how best to express themselves reverently and listen objectively? When and where exactly can this important art be taught?
Whilst academics remain the focal point in school curriculum, substantial attention ought to be given to important life skills such as communication through debates. I see debates as a bridge between strife and serenity, understanding and unsoundness, despair and devotion. I mean if A.Hitler could sensibly deliberate his concerns regarding anti-semitism and Aryanismm, the fateful Holocaust would remain bare delusion, perhaps.
Debating attracts a broader perspective towards an issue. It enables dissenting parties to fully explore the basis, possible outcomes and available alternatives in every undertaking. Whats more, debaters get to appreciate each other for being able to identify hidden aspects on a matter. However, given that it involves structure and intellect, this art has to be learned and executed skillfully.
Studies reveal that students who get acquainted to debating skills at an early stage become more successful and generally live happier lives. At the very least, debate helps learners to see the power of deploying rational, reasoned arguments and compelling evidence in action. It enables them to elucidate their standpoint through utilizing rhetorical eloquence. It instills in debaters a great sense of poise and confidence. It teaches them the skills of researching, organizing, and presenting information in a compelling fashion.
Debaters easily have their way and say. This naturally explains why excellent orators and debaters happen to be transformative leaders of their times. Sustaining reasoned conversations and making informed argument all go along towards influencing, inspiring and motivating colleagues to shelve their stances, view from your trajectory and adopt your course of action. Patrick Lumumba, Julius Nyerere, Martin Luther, Barrack Obama name them.
Back at home. School arson, vandalism and fatalities has been nothing new to our headlines. How about school admins trained learners how to cordially raise their concerns…..suppose community representatives edge their border rows intellectually….what if legislators adduced a bit of rationality in passing the recently enacted media bill, security bill, election law, cyber crime, bill, energy bill. Again perhaps Kenyans would be spared of stinging tribulations.
And mark my words. Its not that people don’t engage in dialogue, no please. Its just that most problems we endure are ‘cos of poor debating and analytical abilities, highly pandemic among decision makers and rulers of my time. Maasawo!!!
Mane primer 