Mackenzie High School Wins J.O.F. Haynes Memorial Secondary Schools Debating Competition

Mackenzie High School Wins J.O.F. Haynes Memorial Secondary Schools Debating Competition

Georgetown, Guyana — Mackenzie High School of Region 10 has been declared the overall winner of the 2025–2026 J.O.F. Haynes Memorial Secondary Schools Debating Competition, following the grand finale held on June 12, 2026, at the St. Rose’s High School Auditorium.

In the final round, Mackenzie High School competed against Region 7’s Three Miles Secondary School, with Mackenzie representing the Opposition and Three Miles defending the Proposition.

Mackenzie High School’s team comprised First Speaker, Nephlyah Farrel; Second Speaker, Tahir Gomes; and Third Speaker, Rhea Persaud. Three Miles Secondary School’s team comprised First Speaker, Richard Mohabeer; Second Speaker, Mia Shanks; and Third Speaker, Bhavani Sieucharran.

The students debated the topic: “Be it resolved that implementing a Universal Basic Income from oil revenues is the most effective way to eliminate poverty in Guyana.”

After a competitive exchange, Mackenzie High School emerged victorious, while Three Miles Secondary School secured second place. Nephlyah Farrel of Mackenzie High School was named Best Debater.

Both finalist teams, along with their teachers and coaches, received recognition for their outstanding performances, including plaques and gift vouchers.

The 2025–2026 competition was launched on April 28, 2026, by the Ministry of Education’s Secondary Sector. Schools competed through several rounds, debating issues including road safety, digital learning, Smart Classrooms, and the impact of social media on Guyanese culture.

Throughout the competition, students were assessed on Content, Style, Organisation, and Rebuttal, using a revised Ministry of Education debating scoresheet.

The Ministry of Education’s Secondary Sector extends appreciation to participating schools, education departments, host venues, the Guyana Learning Channel, and all stakeholders who contributed to the successful staging of the competition.