BYREA, St. Vincent and the Grenadines – J’Nyla Lewis Childs of Georgetown Government School emerged victorious at the first-ever Zonal Public Speaking Competition hosted by Pamelus Burke Government School, winning the coveted Prime Minister’s Challenge Trophy.
Childs took top honors on Thursday, May 23, at Pamelus Burke Government School in Byrea, securing her win in the Prepared Speech Category with a compelling argument on whether sugary foods and drinks should be banned in schools.
Japhia Thomas from South Rivers Methodist School earned second place by excelling in the Impromptu Category, where she addressed the topic “If I were the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines for one day.” Third place was awarded to Rolanda Richardson of Pamelus Burke Government School, while Kenieka Clouden from Langley Park Government School took fourth.
Lystra Huggins, Chairperson of the Pamelus Burke Government School Literacy Committee, remarked that the school has traditionally held internal public speaking contests each May to celebrate Literacy Week. This year, the competition expanded to include neighboring schools to foster the development of public speaking as an essential skill among students.
Huggins emphasized that public speaking helps students express themselves confidently and clearly, boosting their self-esteem and communication abilities. She noted that these skills are not only beneficial for academic success but also vital for real-life situations. By organizing this competition, the school aims to place oratory skills at the forefront of education.