Press Releases

Georgetown, Guyana – The Upper East Coast Youth Federation Youth Group delivered a hard-fought victory over the Golden Om Dharmic Organisation in the final debate of Round 2 of the 2025 Speaker’s National Youth Debating Competition, securing the last available spot in the upcoming Round 3.

The in-person debate, held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 17, in the Chamber of the Public Buildings, Brickdam, Georgetown, marked the close of the second round of the national competition. The moot for the match, “World racism is at an all-time high,” demanded rigorous comparative analysis and a strong command of statistical and historical data—challenges both teams rose to with commendable skill.

Judges praised both teams for their thorough research, compelling arguments, and strategic use of historical and real-time data trends. Special emphasis was placed on the importance of mechanics, tone, pitch, and volume in oratory performance, with the judging panel offering constructive feedback to all debaters.

In a rare moment of this competition’s history, Chief Judge Dr. Delon Fraser announced that both teams tied in the rebuttal segment, scoring an even 44 points each—a testament to the balanced strength of both arguments. Ultimately, the Upper East Coast Youth Federation, debating on the Opposition side, edged out their opponents with an average score of 241 points to the Proposition’s 233.

Despite the Golden Om Dharmic Organisation’s narrow loss, team member Ms. Devraine Narine was named Best Debater of the match. She was celebrated for her eloquence, sharp reasoning, and outstanding clarity in addressing the complex topic.

With this win, the Upper East Coast Youth Federation Youth Group advances to Round 3, joining other regional champions in the next stage of the competition, where the debates promise to be even more intense and thought-provoking.

The Speaker’s National Youth Debating Competition continues to serve as a critical platform for Guyana’s youth to engage in national discourse, sharpen their civic awareness, and prepare for future leadership.

Members of the public are encouraged to tune in to the Parliament of Guyana’s official Website, Facebook, and YouTube pages to follow the upcoming Round 3 debates, beginning with Matches 1 and 2 on Friday, June 20, 2025.

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