In a powerful display of knowledge, critical thinking, and persuasive arguments, the Financial Literacy
Debate Competition dubbed ‘CASH CLASH’, organized by JA Ghana in collaboration with Prudential Life
Insurance (PLIG), captivated the attention of students, educators, and dignitaries alike. The event, held at
the Accra Academy assembly hall on April 28th, 2023, showcased the significance of financial literacy in
Ghana and underscored JA Ghana and Prudential Life Insurance Ghana’s commitment to empowering the
country’s youth.
With the objective of fostering meaningful discussions on economic issues and their impact on individuals
and families, the competition gathered five esteemed senior high schools from Accra: St. Thomas Aquinas
SHS, Accra Academy, O’Reilly SHS, St. John’s Grammar School, and Alpha Beta Christian College. These
schools seized the opportunity to delve into the realm of financial literacy with fervor and enthusiasm.
The event commenced with a warm welcome address from Mr. Abeiku Greene, the Executive Director of
JA Ghana, emphasizing the organization’s mission to equip young people with the necessary skills and
knowledge to navigate the complexities of the financial world. The distinguished presence of Mr. Christian
Julius Aforla, Ablekuma West Municipal Director of Education, and Prudential Life Insurance officials,
including Miss Maukeni Riberio, added weight and significance to the occasion.
The competition kicked off with a preliminary stage where students from each school passionately
presented their perspectives on financial literacy topics they had randomly selected. This initial phase
demonstrated the students’ grasp of financial concepts and their ability to articulate their thoughts
eloquently within the allotted three minutes. The selection process resulted in four schools advancing to
the next round, setting the stage for an intense battle of ideas.
As the debate unfolded, St. Thomas Aquinas, St. John’s Grammar School, Accra Academy, and O’Reilly SHS
emerged as the frontrunners, showcasing their analytical prowess and rhetorical skills. The semi-final
rounds saw St. John’s Grammar School and Accra Academy secure their positions in the final debate,
where they faced off in a heated discussion on whether high school students should engage in part-time
jobs to learn financial responsibility or if it hampers their academic performance.
The final debate was nothing short of electrifying, as both schools skillfully presented their arguments,
incorporating real-world examples and logical reasoning. After a fierce battle of intellect, Accra Academy
emerged as the overall winner, narrowly defeating St. John’s Grammar School by a mere 1.9 points. Their
triumph was a testament to their dedication, preparation, and ability to persuasively advocate for their
stance.
The Financial Literacy Debate Competition not only provided a platform for young minds to express their
thoughts but also underscored the importance of financial literacy in shaping the future of Ghana’s youth.
JA Ghana’s commitment to equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed
financial decisions was evident throughout the event. The competition served as a stepping stone towards
fostering a financially literate generation capable of navigating the intricacies of the modern economic
landscape.
Miss Maukeni Riberio, in her closing remarks, lauded the participants for their remarkable achievements
and highlighted the transformative impact that JA Ghana’s initiatives have had on Ghanaian youth. The
event concluded with the distribution of prizes and awards to all participating schools, encouraging them
to continue their journey towards financial literacy.
As the curtains fell on the Financial Literacy Debate Competition, the resounding success of the event
echoed JA Ghana’s vision of creating a financially empowered generation. By engaging students in
thoughtful discussions and arming them with the tools necessary to thrive in an increasingly complex
world.