The University of Namibia (UNAM) has launched its inaugural inter-university debate championship, bringing together students from the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) and the International University of Management (IUM) to debate issues affecting Namibian society alongside it.

Officially opening the championship, Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Technology Wenzel Kavaka urged participants to conduct thorough research and engage in informed debate. 

"This championship will be more than a competition; it is an investment in Namibia's future leaders. It will provide students with a valuable opportunity to sharpen their critical thinking, research, public speaking and analytical skills while encouraging them to engage meaningfully with issues of national importance."

UNAM Chancellor Professor Kenneth Matengu also welcomed the initiative, describing the championship as an important platform for nurturing critical thinking, respectful dialogue and future leaders capable of contributing to Namibia's development through informed debate.

Teams from UNAM, NUST and IUM are competing for the inaugural title, with the winning team set to receive N$15,000, gold medals and a trophy. 

The runners-up will take home N$8,000 and silver medals, while the third-placed team will receive N$5,000 and bronze medals. 
The fourth-placed team will be awarded N$2,000.