St. Mary’s Girls’ Senior High School has emerged victorious in the fourth edition of the ECOWAS second-cycle inter-schools debate. The prestigious academic competition concluded with Accra STEM Academy securing second place and Odorgonor Senior High School taking third. Rounding out the competitive field, Accra Academy finished as the third runner-up (fourth place), followed by Chemu Senior High School in fifth, and Frafraha Community Day Senior High School in sixth.
The intellectual showdown, held in Accra, served as a cornerstone of the activities marking the 51st anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), commemorating the signing of the Treaty of Lagos on May 28, 1975.
Speaking at the commencement of the event, the Head of Duties at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Alexander Grant, asserted that the foundational vision of ECOWAS remains deeply relevant as the subregion navigates an increasingly complex global landscape. He noted that modern challenges, ranging from economic pressures and security threats to rapid technological transformations—make stronger regional cooperation more critical than ever.
On behalf of the government and people of Ghana, Grant extended warm congratulations to the ECOWAS Commission and all member states. Reflecting on the bloc’s five-decade journey, he described the institution as a “resilient symbol of unity, cooperation, and shared progress,” praising the foresight of the founding fathers whose vision of a peaceful and prosperous West Africa continues to guide member states.
Grant highlighted the significant strides ECOWAS has made in advancing trade and economic cooperation. Specifically, he cited milestones such as the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme and lauded the community’s success in promoting the free movement of goods, services, and people. Furthermore, he commended the bloc’s central role in peacekeeping, conflict mediation, and the promotion of democratic governance, which have reinforced its position as a pillar of regional stability.
However, the diplomat cautioned that deep-seated challenges persist across the subregion, including youth unemployment, economic disparities, infrastructural gaps, and evolving security threats. Addressing these bottlenecks, he stressed, requires renewed commitments and innovative solutions, particularly when considering the demographic reality of West Africa.
”Our region has one of the youngest populations in the world, with approximately 65% of its population under the age of 24,” Grant stated. “This presents both a tremendous opportunity and a responsibility. Our young people must be equipped with the knowledge and awareness necessary to fully benefit from and contribute meaningfully to the ECOWAS integration agenda.”
Turning his attention to the inter-schools debate, Grant described the platform as both timely and significant. He explained that the initiative is part of intensified efforts by authorities to create widespread awareness about critical ECOWAS protocols such as the rights of residence and establishment among the youth through nationwide sensitization programs.
Grant commended the participating students for their enthusiasm and urged them to use the competition to demonstrate clarity of thought, respect for diverse perspectives, and intellectual excellence. Championing their role as future leaders, he reminded them of the immense responsibility they carry.
”The youth are the torchbearers of tomorrow. Today, that torch is firmly in your hands,” Grant said, invoking a traditional proverb to emphasize their role in shaping the continent’s future.
Concluding his address, Grant expressed profound gratitude to the participating schools, teachers, and organizers for their dedication to the event’s success. He noted that the exercise would not only sharpen the intellectual abilities of the students but also deepen their long-term appreciation for the vital mission of regional integration.
Story By: Eugenia Ewoenam Osei
