Students from the Faculty of Accounting and Finance of UPSA put up a high-spirited performance at the maiden Pensions Debate Competition organised by the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA).
The competition, held on Wednesday, October 25, at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly Hall, saw team UPSA engaging in an academic showdown with the University of Ghana.
Both universities displayed remarkable argumentation and critical thinking skills as they argued for and against the topic, “The new Pensions Act, 766 has made retirement savings accessible to all.”
The highlight of the debate was the cross-examination phase, where speakers had the opportunity to question each other’s proposition and challenged their arguments.
This phase added an engaging dimension to the competition, showcasing the extent of research and preparation on both sides.
The competitors’ outstanding performance left the audience and judges in awe, leading to a split decision at the end of contest.
For their prize, the winning teams went home with a trophy, a cash prize, certificates of participation, a free pension accounts with General Trust, and a pension fund trustee.
UPSA was represented by Kelvin Ofosu Acquah (final year Actuarial Science), Benedicta Maame Serwaa Ofori (third year Business Economics), and Michael Ofori (final year Actuarial Science).
They were led by Dr. Eric Boachie-Yaidom, Ernest Sogah and Patience Armah.
“Participating in this debate was a valuable experience for all involved, fostering intellectual growth, public speaking skills, and the ability to engage in constructive dialogue,” Dr Boachie-Yiadom said shortly after the competition.
“These competitions serve as a crucial platform for our students to critically examine and discuss real-world issues, and we commend the National Pensions Regulatory Authority for organizing such an event.
“As the academic community looks forward to more opportunities for intellectual discourse, debate, and knowledge-sharing, these competitions will undoubtedly continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the minds of future leaders.”
The Pensions Debate Competition was the climax of the 2023 National Pensions Fair which commenced on October 1, 2023.
