As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment, Zijin Rosebel Gold Mines N.V. (RGM) continues to invest in the social development of its host communities, with education as a key pillar. One of these initiatives is the Brokopondo Debate Competition 2026, an educational program aimed at strengthening communication skills, critical thinking, and self-confidence among secondary school students in the Brokopondo district.
For many years, RGM has supported youth development in Brokopondo by organizing activities that help students express themselves confidently in the Dutch language. Since 2012, the annual Speech Contest has played an important role in this effort. To further enhance students’ skills, RGM expanded the program by introducing debate competitions, allowing students to develop argumentation skills, respectful dialogue, and analytical thinking.
Competition Structure and Program Highlights
The Brokopondo Debate Competition 2026 was held over two days. The preliminary rounds took place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, followed by the final round on Sunday, January 25, 2026.
During the preliminary rounds, 19 students from LBO Brokopondo, Mulo Brokopondo, and Johannes Gabsie Weewee VO School competed in structured debate sessions. Students were divided into groups and debated across multiple rounds, after which the strongest teams advanced to the finals.
The final day opened with remarks from representatives of the Traditional Authority of Brokopondo, followed by speeches from representatives of Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname, the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture, and Rosebel Gold Mines N.V. These speeches emphasized the importance of education, youth empowerment, and critical thinking.
A roundtable debate formed an important part of the program, during which students discussed socially relevant motions such as living conditions in Brokopondo and access to education. This was followed by the final debate between the two top-performing schools.
Strong Engagement and Community Support
Attendance and engagement during both days were strong and diverse. Students, teachers, parents, community members, and official guests actively participated and supported the debaters. Representatives from government institutions, partner companies, media houses, and RGM staff were present, contributing to a lively and encouraging atmosphere.
Competition Results
After a closely contested final, Group A of the Johannes Gabsie Weewee VO School represented by students Pansa Shenigua, Linga Burleigh, Finkie Vijetska & Benali Iona secured first place, They narrowly outperformed LBO Brokopondo, which placed second, represented by students Huur Zuzenio, Nelson Or-Jay, Baabo Batista & Paulus Gremiën
The jury evaluated the teams based on criteria developed by JCI, including eye contact, voice projection, confidence, and accuracy of language use.
Youth Voices at the Center
One of the most impactful debate themes focused on the possible closure of schools in Brokopondo and its implications for students’ right to education. Students highlighted financial and housing challenges faced when studying in Paramaribo, demonstrating a strong understanding of their reality.
Educational and Social Impact
Participation in the debate competition enabled students to develop collaboration, communication, argumentation, analytical thinking, and self-confidence. This initiative aligns with RGM’s broader community development programs and contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education.
Collaboration with Partners
The competition was organized in collaboration with Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V., JCI, Pansa Group of Companies N.V., and N.V. Rah Exploration. Each partner contributed through financial support, materials, and technical execution.
Looking Ahead
One of the greatest successes of this edition was the high completion rate among students with no prior debate experience. Lessons learned include the need for additional language training and stronger school involvement. Future plans include continued monitoring and potential expansion to debates with schools in Paramaribo.
Closing Reflection
In his opening message, the Manager of Community Relations and Development emphasized the importance of listening and thinking during dialogue and highlighted the need for leaders with strong critical-thinking skills.
Value Creation and Development for All
