The St Patrick’s Youth Organisation (SPYO), in proud partnership with the Investment Migration Agency (IMA) Grenada, announces the successful conclusion of the 2025 IMA Grenada/SPYO Primary School Debate Competition.
This year’s competition, held under the powerful theme “Empowering the Future: Youth Leadership as the Key to Nation Building,” brought together 19 primary schools from the parishes of St Patrick, St John, St Andrew, and St David. Over the past several weeks, students engaged in a series of intellectually stimulating rounds of debate, including the elimination, preliminary, quarterfinal, and semifinal rounds, leading to an exciting Grand Final on 3 December 2025 at the GBSS Auditorium.
The competition showcased the exceptional talent, confidence, and critical thinking skills of primary school students across Grenada. They debated forward-thinking topics related to sustainable development, youth governance, artificial intelligence, and the role of young leaders in nation-building. After a remarkable display of passion, teamwork, and eloquence, debating the topic, “Be it resolved that Grenada should focus primarily on strengthening its partnerships with African countries for cultural exchange and sustainable development.” St Patrick’s RC School emerged as the winner, amassing a total of 1,264 points and winning a cash prize of $6,000. St John’s Anglican School secured the 2nd place prize of $4,000 with 1,226 points, 38 points difference from the St Patrick’s RC School, and the River Sallee Government School claimed the 3rd place prize of $3,000.
In addition to the institutional awards, 2 outstanding students from St Patrick’s RC School received top individual honours. Xana Fraser was named Best Debater of the 2025 competition for her exceptional clarity, confidence, and persuasive delivery. Nathan Olive earned the title of Best Rebutter award for his sharp analytical responses and strong command of the issues presented during the final round. Their achievements reflect the high standard of excellence displayed by participants throughout the competition.
Commenting on the competition, Rea Burke, the Marketing and Communication Officer from IMA Grenada, said: “We are proud to be partnered with SPYO to help grow this competition. To u,s we are not just sponsoring an event, we are shaping futures, creating opportunities and nurturing a generation of young people who will become the leaders, thinkers and innovators of tomorrow.” She went on to encourage the students participating to “Speak boldly, think critically and above all, learn from one another as this very arena is geared to developing you.”
Karena Noel, Vice President of SPYO, went on to congratulate the debaters by commenting, “Congratulations on making it this far, your courage to speak, your willingness to challenge ideas and your determination to excel show that you are leaders in your own right; regardless of today’s outcome, you have already accomplished something remarkable.”
Delivering special remarks at the closing ceremony, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade & Export Development Honourable Joseph Andall also commended SPYO, schools, and participants for their dedication and hard work. He remarked, “I wish the debaters the very best, and quoting Nelson Mandela, “you’re either a winner or a learner.” So, if your team walks away with the silver medal, don’t see yourself as a loser but someone who has participated in a meaningful and worthwhile venture and acquired valuable life lessons.”
The SYPO and IMA Grenada express profound gratitude to the sponsors who made this year’s event possible, including Rubis Caribbean, Grenada Cooperative Bank, Republic Bank Grenada Limited, Glenelg Spring Water, True Blue Bay Resort, and the National Lotteries Authority (NLA). Their continued generosity and commitment to youth development continue to promote academic success, leadership potential, and opportunities for young people across Grenada. The organisers also commend the teachers, parents, coaches, adjudicators, and volunteers whose dedication and support contributed significantly to the success of the 2025 competition.
As this year’s debate programme ends, the St Patrick’s Youth Organisation and IMA Grenada extend heartfelt congratulations to all participating schools and students for their outstanding performances and unwavering enthusiasm. The competition will continue to serve as a meaningful platform that inspires youth engagement, strengthens critical thinking, and prepares the next generation of leaders for the important roles they will play in shaping the future of Grenada.
SPYO
