MONROVIA – The Amos C. Sawyer College of Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Liberia has successfully hosted its inaugural academic debate, providing a dynamic platform for students to demonstrate critical thinking, academic engagement, and effective communication skills.
The landmark event was held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at the Thelma E. Duncan Sawyer Faculty Lounge in Fendall. It was organized under the auspices of the Amos C. Sawyer College Student Association, in collaboration with the Office of the Dean of the College.
The debate centered on the topic: “Should higher education learning be entirely free for all students or be awarded based on academic performance?” The subject sparked passionate arguments from the debaters and active engagement from the audience, generating a meaningful exchange of ideas on a critical issue facing tertiary education in Liberia.
A total of five students, two females and three males, from four academic departments, including Political Science, Demography, Social Work, and Sociology, participated in the debate. Three students argued in favor of free higher education for all, while two opposed the motion, advocating for merit-based access.
The debaters were Abednego Seh, Victoria Diasay, Lassana F. Donzo, Brandalyn K. Y. Wollarh, and Dave Whapoe. Their strong performances reflected thorough preparation, discipline, and the quality of academic training offered by the College.
After nearly two hours of rigorous intellectual engagement, the panel of judges declared the team opposing the motion as the winner. The debate was moderated by Rev. Emmanuel D. Kollie, who served as Chief Moderator and guided the discussion with professionalism and balance.
The winning debaters, Abednego Seh and Victoria Diasay, received cash prizes and medals, while the remaining participants, Lassana F. Donzo, Brandalyn K. Y. Wollarh, and Dave Whapoe, were awarded medals in recognition of their participation and commendable performance.
The College administration and student leadership expressed deep appreciation to the panelists and invited guests for their contributions to the success of the event. Special recognition was given to Mr. Barnaba K. Tuopay, President of the Amos C. Sawyer College Student Association, and his leadership team for organizing what was described as a stimulating and impactful academic exercise.
Gratitude was also extended to distinguished guests from the United States of America, Mr. Jerome Gayman and Mr. Nagbe, whose insights and perspectives enriched the debate and elevated the level of discourse.
The panel of judges included Rev. Emmanuel D. Kollie (Chairperson), Prof. Dr. Moses C. T. Jarbo (Co-Chair), Mr. Paul Dominic Jarry (Secretary), and members Tenenso Brohdonyen, Charles Crawford, Rev. Wynetta Goodridge, Ben P. Cooper, and Rev. Tehpamubo Mlanwiin Sayeh. The College noted that their depth of knowledge and guidance inspired both participants and attendees.
In closing remarks, the Dean of the Amos C. Sawyer College, Prof. Dr. Josephus Gbala-hinnih Moses Gray, commended the debaters, panelists, and audience for supporting academic excellence. He emphasized that the inaugural debate reflects a new trajectory for the College, aligned with its mission to prepare young people for future challenges, leadership, and global competitiveness.
