Celebrated As Liberia’s New Intellectual Force
Monrovia, Liberia – The United Methodist University (UMU) Debate Team has returned home to thunderous applause after securing the runner-up position at the prestigious River State University Debate Open in Nigeria, an achievement that has positioned Liberia as a rising force in international debate circuits.
The UMU “Light Debate Team,” represented by a delegation of three, fought through over ten rounds of fierce competition, making it from the preliminary round to the quarterfinals, semifinals, and finally the grand finale. The Liberian team was recognized as the “Best International University,” an honor that stunned competing nations and garnered respect throughout Nigeria, despite their close defeat to the River State University Debate Society.
It was a defining and transforming experience for the crew. One of the debaters, Abu N. Dassen, told reporters at the United Methodist University campus in Monrovia that the event was a realization of a longstanding goal. “Representing Liberia on such a large stage is something some people only experience once. I feel pride, honor, and fulfillment,” he said.
Alie Bangurah, another debater, emphasized the team’s steep learning curve, adjusting to a quicker debate style, negotiating strange accents, and competing without internet access because of travel restrictions. “It was tough. We didn’t have phones or SIM cards, so we had to rely on our own understanding. But we persevered,” Bangurah explained.
For his part, Team captain Moana Kalilu-Coneh, a former national Most Valuable Debater, said the Nigerian experience was “a rewarding cultural shock,” but one that strengthened the team’s resolve. “We learned new techniques, new styles, and we competed at the same time. To reach the finals shocked many people,” he noted.
Kalilu-Coneh told journalists that upon their return to Liberia, the UMU family celebrated the team’s return; adding that during the official presentation ceremony, the university received the team’s trophies and certificates, both local and international. Coach Clifton Kwaye Kegley, a former UMU debate captain, said their performance was not surprising. “Winning is never strange to UMU. What is strange is when they say UMU lost,” he explained.
The coach commended each player’s perseverance despite the lack of resources, pointing out that the squad won the national championship in 2024 without institutional backing. The Light Debate Team currently claims that it is ready for any local obstacle, including those from competitors like Stella Maris Polytechnic. Some local teams have already avoided games since their return, according to team members.
The squad thinks Liberia’s next global debate trophy is within grasp as they aim for additional international competitions. In an effort to bolster Liberia’s intellectual community and inspire a new generation of thinkers, the UMU debate team continues to welcome new members and has its weekly sessions on Front Street.
Reported by: Prince Saah
