Chapter 7: Debates and Discoveries
Friday mornings at Bosol always carried a spark of excitement. The air buzzed not just with the usual school hustle, but also with anticipation. It was Debate Day—a monthly event where students from different classes competed intellectually under the gaze of teachers and peers. It was also a platform where confidence was tested, voices were heard, and leaders were noticed.
In SS2A, the atmosphere was a mix of anxiety and energy.
"This time it's between SS2A and SS2B," Ajiboye announced proudly, standing at the center of the class like a town crier.
"And guess who's representing us?" Bimbo said, pointing to Ayomide and Elumezie.
"Ayomide again?" muttered a voice at the back, laced with both admiration and envy.
"She's the best we've got," said Precious Ajiboye firmly. "You want us to lose?"
Ayomide, neatly dressed with her badge polished and her notebook under her arm, turned from her desk. "This isn't about me," she said calmly. "We all represent Bosol. I'm just the speaker today."
Victory gave her a high five. "Go and finish them!"
"I'll try," Ayomide said with a smile.
The topic for the debate was:
> "Social Media Has Done More Harm Than Good."
Ayomide would speak for the motion, while SS2B's speaker, Tega, a boy known for his humor and sharp tongue, would speak against it.
At the school's multipurpose hall, students gathered in green-on-green uniforms, sitting according to classes. Teachers were seated in front—Mr. Daniel, Mrs. Ayoade, and the Directress, who had a notepad ready for judging.
Mr. Rasheed, acting as the moderator, adjusted his glasses.
"Today's debate," he began, "will test your ability to reason, persuade, and defend your points under pressure. Speakers, prepare yourselves."
Ayomide stepped forward with quiet confidence. She greeted the audience and began:
"Social media was designed to connect us, but in many ways, it has divided us. Studies have shown that addiction to platforms like Instagram and TikTok have led to increased depression in teenagers. Cyberbullying, fake news, and distraction during school hours are just a few examples. Our values are fading—respect, attention, focus. We are losing ourselves in a digital world."
Her words were crisp, each point delivered with clarity and backed by facts. Even the younger students listened attentively, nodding at the truth in her words.
Then Tega from SS2B stood up.
"Yes, social media has its problems," he said, smiling confidently, "but so does electricity if you misuse it. Shall we ban that too? Social media connects families, builds businesses, and gives students access to knowledge. It's not the tool—it's how we use it. Don't blame the knife for the wound."
The hall erupted in soft claps and laughter. His charm was undeniable.
Back and forth the debate went. Rebuttals flew. Questions were answered. Both sides gave compelling arguments.
After the debate, the judges huddled. The students whispered eagerly.
When Mr. Rasheed returned to the podium, he held up a piece of paper.
"The winning team…" he began, "by just five points… is SS2A!"
The hall thundered with applause. Ajiboye jumped up and shouted, "Bosol no dey carry last!"
Victory hugged Ayomide tightly. Elumezie, who had also delivered strong supporting arguments, bowed dramatically to the crowd.
"Good job," said Mr. Daniel, smiling as he handed Ayomide a certificate. "You were calm, clear, and convincing. Three C's of public speaking."
"Thank you, sir."
But not everyone was pleased.
As they left the hall, Ayomide overheard two SS2B girls whispering, "Of course they won. She's the one teachers want as Head Girl."
Ayomide paused but didn't react. She had heard similar comments before. Every success brought shadows of jealousy. Still, she chose grace over confrontation.
Later that day during break, a few classmates gathered near the tuck shop.
"I think Ayomide should definitely be Head Girl," Bimbo said. "She represents the school well."
"But what about Ajiboye?" someone else asked. "He's kind, smart, and he's always helping."
Victory laughed. "Why not both? She can be Head Girl and he can be Head Boy."
"I heard the form drops next week," Elumezie said. "Campaigns will start soon."
Meanwhile, on the school notice board, new posters had been pasted. One read:
> Prefectship Criteria
1. Academic Performance
2. Punctuality and Discipline
3. Leadership Skills
4. Staff Recommendation
5. Clean Record (No Punishments or Sanctions)
Fadeyi, who was reading the poster, sighed quietly. "I guess my Civic mistake may affect my chances."
Victory stood beside her. "You're still in the game. You're learning, and the school respects that."
"Maybe I'll just focus on sports prefect," Fadeyi said with a small smile.
As the day wore on, the sun cast a warm glow on the school compound. The bell rang for closing, and students lined up at the assembly ground for final announcements.
The Director stood before them with his usual calm demeanor.
"Young people," he said, "Bosol is not just about grades. It is about who you're becoming. Leadership is not about titles—it's about responsibility."
He looked toward SS2A, his eyes resting briefly on Ayomide and Ajiboye.
"As we prepare for prefectship elections, remember—true leaders serve others, not themselves."
He stepped back, and the Directress took his place. "Dismiss in lines. JS1 first."
As the students filed out, the school motto glowed again above the entrance gate, a gentle reminder in gold letters:
> "God is our Refuge."
In Bosol, each day brought a new lesson. And for Ayomide, Ajiboye, and their friends, the path to leadership was just beginning—one decision, one debate, and one discovery at a time.
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