The Toastmasters competition is under the theme “Persuade with Power” and is set to bring out speech presentation skills in the student populace. TOASTMASTERS Zambia in conjunction with the University of Zambia Student Union (UNZASU) will hold its first ever speech competition at the institution to help students build their leadership skills.
Speaking in an interview with the Lusaka Star, competition coordinator Member Mwachilenga said the competition was expected to provide a platform for students to participate in a debate that would bring out their leadership skills.
He said the competition which was under the theme “Persuade with Power” is set to bring out speech presentation skills in the student populace and shape future leaders.
“UNZA has great potential to create future leaders that can represent the country in various fora,” he said.
Mwachilenga added that the participants would go through a series of training sessions that would enhance their skills and give them a better opportunity to participate in development issues and contribute to the political development of the country.
And UNZASU Academic Affairs Secretary Luke Simpemba said the union partnered with Toastmasters International to provide a platform for students from all schools to participate and show their skills in the competition.
He said he was impressed at the turnout of female students that had registered to participate in the competition.
“I implore students to take advantage of such projects because it is a good platform for exposure and will help them to improve their skills in public speaking and shape their image,” Simpemba added.
Toastmasters is an international club with a presence at the University of Zambia and other institutions of higher education such as Evelyn Hone, ZICAS and Lusaka University.
Toastmasters International is spending approximately over K50, 000 to ensure the smooth running of the competition.
The debate is set to take place on the 26th November 2013 and the final team at UNZA will consist of 6 candidates who would compete with teams from other learning institutions.
The finals are expected to be held in January 2014 live on ZNBC and the winners will receive American trophies and other prizes.