Students of Elizade University once again demonstrated intellectual brilliance, eloquence and analytical depth as the institution successfully hosted its 2026 Annual Inter-Faculty Debate and Public Speaking Competition on May 15, 2026.
 

The intellectually engaging event, themed “Beyond the Screen: The Future of University Learning,” brought together outstanding students from the university’s various faculties in a vibrant display of reasoning, communication skills and healthy academic rivalry.
 

Declaring open the competition, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Philip Oguntunde said it is organised as part of the university’s commitment to academic excellence and holistic student development, noting that it underscores the institution’s unwavering dedication to nurturing critical thinking, leadership and effective communication among students.
 

Also in attendance were the University Bursar, the Dean of Student Affairs, faculty representatives and other members of the university community, all of whom added prestige and colour to the occasion.
 

A major highlight of the programme was the Parliamentary Debate segment, where participants passionately debated the motion: “This House Believes That Universities Should Intentionally Reduce Reliance on Digital Learning Platforms Even at the Cost of Convenience and Efficiency.”
 

The contest witnessed stimulating arguments, exceptional composure and impressive displays of logic and persuasion from all participating faculties, as contestants examined the future of learning in an increasingly digital world.
 

At the end of the keenly contested debate, the Faculty of Law, represented by Bayo Aina Janet and Olorunfemi Akinduyile, emerged overall winner, following what judges described as an outstanding and intellectually superior performance.
 

The Faculty of Basic and Allied Sciences, represented by Mariam Florence and Akinyera Mercy, secured second position, while the Faculty of Humanities and Social Management Sciences, represented by Adekoya-Benson Tise and Agorile Mofiyinfoluwa, came third. The Faculty of Engineering, represented by Olufemi David Rotimi and Ojapinwa Victor, finished fourth.
 

The Public Speaking segment equally showcased exceptional talent, confidence and mastery of communication among the contestants.
 

Representing the Faculty of Law, Ayomipe Treasure emerged overall winner with an impressive score of 75 percent. Akinfiresoye Isreal of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Management Sciences secured second position with 67.8 points, while Adewale Oluwadarasimi of the Faculty of Basic and Allied Sciences placed third with 59.1 points. Baiyeshea Ifedola of the Faculty of Engineering came fourth with a score of 57.3 points.
 

The Dean, Students Affairs, Professor Modupe Abolade described the competition as highly impactful and memorable, noting that it provided a valuable platform for students to sharpen their public speaking skills, broaden intellectual engagement and strengthen inter-faculty relationships. 
 

The Head of Department, International Relations, Dr Tunde Fajimbola in a brief remark observed that the issue being thrashed is of consequence and global relevance, noting that digital matter is the meat of the world.   
 

The event climaxed with a closing remark and vote of thanks delivered by the Coordinator of the Debate and Public Speaking Society, Adeola Joshua, who expressed profound appreciation to the university management for its consistent support towards the advancement of student-focused intellectual activities.
 

He also commended participants, officials and attendees for contributing to the remarkable success of the 2026 edition of the competition, while reaffirming the society’s commitment to sustaining a culture of excellence, constructive dialogue and leadership development within the university community.