MSA Triumphs in HESA Debate Showdown

Entranced by the power of words and the thrill of intellectual discourse, young minds stepped out of their comfort zones, determined to make their voices heard. On the chilly night of February 4, 2025, the Pharmacy Block became the battleground for some of the sharpest thinkers from the various HESA departments. Were they merely spectators, or were they there to claim the coveted trophy?

Organised as part of the line-up of activities during the HESA Week Celebration and spearheaded by the Editorial Committee, this intriguing platform for intellectual flex provided an atmosphere crackled with tension and unshakable determination. The stage was meticulously set, the lights strategically positioned, and the audience sat in eager suspense. Competitors were divided into four rooms, each tasked with selecting the crème de la crème in a fierce battle of wit over the motion: “The term ‘Japa,’ popularized in 2018 by Nigerian artist Naira Marley, reflects the widespread emigration of West Africans to Western countries due to discontent with socio- economic conditions in their homeland. Many now believe that fleeing is their only path to a better life.” What followed was a display of unrelenting passion, razor-sharp arguments, and unyielding resilience. The Department of Veterinary Medicine, exuding the ferocity of lions, set the room ablaze with their energy and conviction. After intense deliberations and heart-wrenching eliminations, four departments emerged victorious, advancing to the finals: Medicine and Dentistry (GPSA), Pharmacy, Veterinary Medicine, and Herbal Medicine.

In a British parliamentary-style debate, the finalists tackled an even more contentious motion: “Healthcare decisions for children should be made by medical professionals without parental involvement.”  The air was thick with anticipation as each team took the floor. Then came a moment that shifted the entire tone of the debate — “I am the fourth child of my parents….” The heartfelt personal testimony wove emotion into the argument, momentarily softening the rigid ideological stances. The battle raged on, culminating in a dramatic climax. The contenders from Herbal Medicine struggled under the relentless attacks from their Veterinary Medicine counterparts. Yet, it was the riveting performance from the School of Medicine and Dentistry that sealed the night’s fate.

As the final moments approached, the crowd erupted with cheers and jeers, the tension reaching
its peak. Contestants stood on their feet, hearts pounding, awaiting the grand declaration. Then, the moment arrived. “The winners of the 2025 HESA Debate Competition are…MSA!” A thunderous applause swept through the room as the champions basked in their hard-earned glory. The night was one for the books—a testament to the brilliance, resilience, and sheer intellectual firepower of the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Reported by, Franklin Boison (MSA)

The Health Sciences Chronicle