Battle of the Bold MHM Debate Competition 2026
The second edition of the MHM Debate (Battle of the Bold 2026) was organised on 28th May 2026 at the Association’s National Training Centre in Achimota, Accra. Held as part of the commemoration of Menstrual Hygiene Month, the event brought together young debaters from Eagle International School, Accra and Achimota Basic School 2, Accra to engage in a thought-provoking discussion on one of the most pressing issues affecting girls’ education and wellbeing. The debate focused on the motion, “Menstrual hygiene products should be provided free in all public schools,” with Eagle International School being against the motion. This provided a platform for participants to demonstrate their knowledge, critical thinking abilities, public speaking skills, and commitment to advocacy on menstrual health issues.
The 2026 edition continued this legacy by bringing together talented students representing Eagle International School; Nana Adwoa Guraba Graham, Iman Wonzooya Salis-Wakaso, and Nuran Zakariya Hanif. Achimota Basic School 2 was also represented by Mabel Opoku Nhyira, Jayda Agyei Mensah, and Emily Akumaa Djorbuah-Sika. Throughout the debate, participants displayed exceptional confidence, eloquence, and analytical skills as they presented arguments and counterarguments on the motion. Their contributions reflected a growing awareness among young people of the social, educational, and health implications of menstrual hygiene management and the importance of ensuring equitable access to menstrual products.
The MHM Debate Competition was introduced in May 2025 as an innovative approach to raising awareness on menstrual hygiene management among young people. The maiden edition, which was dubbed “A Clash of the Titans,” featured Tot-to-Teen School and St. Peter’s Mission School debating the motion, “The taxation of menstrual products constitutes systematic gender discrimination” which happened on 29th May, 2025. Following an intense and highly engaging contest, St. Peter’s Mission School emerged victorious. The success of the inaugural competition established a strong foundation for what has now become an important annual platform for empowering young voices and promoting meaningful conversations on menstrual health and gender equality.
The 2026 debate attracted considerable interest from participants, educators, Girl Guide leaders, and invited guests, all of whom witnessed a remarkable display of intellect and advocacy. Also, media present were Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) and Angel Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). The competing teams carefully examined the challenges faced by menstruating students, including issues of affordability, accessibility, school attendance, and dignity. Through evidence-based arguments and persuasive presentations, the students demonstrated that young people are capable of contributing meaningfully to discussions on public policy and social development.
At the end of the competition, Eagle International School was adjudged the overall winner of the Battle of the Bold MHM Debate Competition 2026, earning recognition for their outstanding performance and teamwork. Achimota Basic School 2 was named first runner-up after an impressive display of debating skills and advocacy. In addition to the team awards, several individual honours were presented to recognise exceptional performances. Nuran Zakariya Hanif of Eagle International School received the award for Best Debater in recognition of outstanding argumentation, delivery, and overall contribution to the debate. Mabel Opoku Nhyira of Achimota Basic School 2 was honoured as the Emerging Speaker for her confidence and promising public speaking abilities, whiles Jayda Agyei Mensah, also of Achimota Basic School 2, received the Menstrual Hygiene Advocate Award for her passionate and insightful contributions to the discussion on menstrual health.
Beyond the competition itself, the event reinforced the Ghana Girl Guides Association’s commitment to promoting menstrual dignity and supporting girls’ health and education. In keeping with the objectives of Menstrual Hygiene Month, menstrual hygiene products were distributed to all participating schools at the end of the programme. This initiative forms part of the Association’s broader efforts to ensure that girls have access to the resources they need to manage menstruation safely, confidently, and with dignity. By providing practical support alongside education and advocacy, the Association continues to address barriers that may hinder girls’ participation and success in school.
The success of the Battle of the Bold MHM Debate Competition 2026 demonstrates the power of youth engagement in advancing awareness and advocacy on important social issues. The competition not only strengthened participants’ communication and leadership skills but also encouraged them to become ambassadors for menstrual health within their schools and communities. As the initiative continues to grow, it is expected to inspire even more young people to use their voices to champion equality, challenge stigma, and promote positive change.
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The Ghana Girl Guides Association extends its sincere appreciation to the participating schools, teachers, judges, volunteers, partners, and supporters whose contributions made the event a resounding success. Through programmes such as the Battle of the Bold MHM Debate Competition, the Association remains steadfast in its mission to empower girls, foster leadership, and create a future where every girl can thrive with confidence, dignity, and equal opportunities.
