By a correspondent
The need to build oratory capacities for sensitisation of businesses, organisations and institutions has been at the centre of concern to the Association of New Generation Authors (ANGA). In order to nourish this concern, the Association launched the 2nd Edition of the National Public Speaking Competition (NPSC), which aims at identifying young and aspiring orators and giving them the platform to showcase their oratory strength by expressing their opinions on pressing issues plaguing the society.
This year’s edition of the NPSC had three stages: the regional, semi-finals and finals. During the regional sessions that took place in Yaoundé, Buea, and Bamenda, 17 contestants competed through expressions on the theme ‘Are Social Media Influencers Screwing Our Perceptions of Reality?’ After a stiff competition, 14 candidates who emerged victorious proceeded to the semi-finals in Buea and competed at HIMS, Mayor’s Street, on the theme ‘Is Education the Key to Success?’ During the semi-finals, three contestants were outstanding through their captivating and edutaining performances: Nokwang Success Ngehlu (1st), Esunge Hephzibah (2nd) and Alvine Tetu (3rd).
10 contestants travelled to Yaoundé for the finals, which were held on the 23rd of November at École Primaire Catholique de la Retraité at Carrefour Wada. The finalists contested through verbal expressions on ‘mass emigration of Cameroonian youths’.
After a fascinating display of oratory prowess that left the judges and audience in awe, contestants are anxiously waiting for the results, which will be declared on December 18 during an award ceremony at the National Museum. During the finals in Yaoundé, Marks Abaiko, Secretary General of ANGA, who doubles as the coordinator of the competition, thanked the president and the members of the Association for supporting the initiative. He also extended gratitude to the managing director of Havilah Sarl and the president and founder of MIMIO for their support to the initiative. Abaiko again expressed his appreciation to the media for their unflinching push of the project.