UWI kicks off second reparation debate competition for Caribbean students

As of 2026, The University of the West Indies’ Centre for Reparation Research (CRR) has officially launched the second edition of its International Reparation Debate Competition for secondary school students.

The event was inaugurated through a virtual ceremony on January 20, signaling the beginning of this year’s contest, indicated a UWI press release. Attendees included students, educators, partners, stakeholders, and advocates from across the Caribbean region and the diaspora.

As outlined in the release, the competition’s mission is to reshape how Caribbean youth connect with history, justice, and the ongoing global reparations movement. Over time, the initiative has experienced notable growth. This year, a total of 36 secondary schools have signed up—an increase from 24 in the inaugural year. These schools are from Jamaica (15), Trinidad and Tobago (12), The Bahamas (3), the United Kingdom (2), and Guyana (1). The lineup features returning participants, new entrants, and defending champions, reflecting heightened regional and international engagement.

Debates among students will commence on February 9, 2026, and will continue for just over nine weeks, culminating in the Grand Finale scheduled for April 17, 2026.

The release stated that the Centre for Reparation Research remains committed to emphasizing the importance of education rooted in historical accuracy and critical analysis. Its goal is to prepare a new generation of Caribbean leaders equipped with the skills necessary to engage meaningfully in one of the most vital issues of justice affecting the region.

The competition benefits from the backing of several prominent partners, including The Repair Campaign, the Jamaican Association for Debating and Empowerment (JADE), UWI Press, the CARICOM Reparation Commission, and the Wilberforce Institute at the University of Hull.

Reportedly, Professor Sonjah Stanley Niaah, Director of the Centre, delivered opening remarks at the virtual launch, stressing the importance of integrating reparations discourse into Caribbean educational curricula. Various speakers echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to empower youth with the tools to critically examine the past and actively participate in the ongoing reparations movement.

Ms. Melissa Beckford, Chair of the History Teachers Association in Jamaica, underscored the role of history education in cultivating informed and confident students capable of meaningful engagement with reparation efforts. Dr. Niambi Hall Campbell-Dean, Chair of The Bahamas National Reparation Committee, spoke about the significance of The Bahamas’ involvement in the competition and the broader importance of regional collaboration.

Contributions also came from Mr. Brian Royes of The Repair Campaign, who highlighted the pivotal role of education in effective advocacy for reparations.

Ms. Karen Smith from UWI Press discussed the importance of knowledge creation and accessibility, while Mr. Germaine Barrett of JADE outlined the competition’s structure and flow.

Adding a youthful perspective, former student debaters Ms. Kaysie Marin (Arima North Secondary), Ms. Shanna Kay Willis (Clarendon College), and Ms. Julianne Solomon (St Joseph Convent, Port of Spain) shared how participating in the contest enhanced their critical thinking skills and ignited their passion for advocating reparatory justice.