VOX POP : Uites Air their Views on Expectations of JAWWAR, The Biggest Public Speaking Competition in Sub-Saharan

Opemipo Olukoga

The University of Ibadan’s Literary and Debating Society (TLDS) is gearing up for the prestigious Jaw War public speaking competition, scheduled to commence on Tuesday, November 26th and themed “Africa’s Travails and Triumphs, Moving Forward, Learning From the Past”

As students brace up to hear from the stellar public speakers during the program, there is a palpable sense of excitement, fueled by the incredible experiences students have had at past events. In this regard, a few Uites share their anticipation and expectations for this highly acclaimed event. 

Jamiu Zeenat, Faculty of Arts 

The Jaw War program has been a great experience for me. I find public speaking to be truly captivating, especially when done well. I always learn something new from the arguments presented. I try to attend as many rounds as I can, I go whenever I have the opportunity. One experience that still stands out was the last Jaw War Finale. It was an incredible event, with eloquent speakers and I had the chance to watch it with some of my favorite people. We even got back to our hostel late that night, making it a truly unforgettable experience. As for this year’s Jaw War, I have high expectations. I’m looking forward to seeing new speakers take the stage, as many or some of the previous participants have graduated.

Ìwàloge Akíntúndé, Faculty of Agriculture

Jawwar has been one event that has always evoked various emotions from me, joy, disappointment, amusement e.t.c but the competitive feeling, the crowd, the fine line of Jaw War speakers, all add up to an enjoyable experience for me. I attend as much as I can but it is usually not convenient to attend jawwar as one that stays off campus as the event runs till late. I really hope we start early this year. A lot of experiences still stick with me actually. The Faculty of Agriculture has won several rounds during the event. Last year’s round against the Faculty of Technology was a very intense one. The songs the students sing to cheer the representatives are nice too. However, I think Jawwar should start latest by 5pm so that by 10pm results are already announced and I hope that the two constituencies to win Jaw war will be, The Faculty of Agriculture and Queen Idia Hall!

Ogunbona Damilola, Faculty of Social Sciences

Jaw war has always been an exciting event everyone looks forward to. For me, it’s another avenue to hear speakers offer differing perspectives on trending social issues. It is both relaxing and entertaining. In addition to it is the social awareness it breeds as well as how educational it always turns out to be. I attend jaw war at every free chance I get to attend it, and it has always been a refreshing experience. If there’s any experience that sticks so well, it was when my faculty qualified to the finals for the first time in a while in the competition that happened earlier this year. I hope to enjoy my time listening to quality speeches from the speakers in this edition.

Oyewale Bukola, Faculty of Social Sciences

I loved last year’s event and the saying, “Stand up, Speak up, Shut up!” The morale was great and the atmosphere was nice. I will love to attend the event regularly and not just finals like I did, last year. I love how educational and organized the event is.

Adebayo Wisdom, Faculty of Arts

Jaw War has been fun. I hope this round is fun too, as it’s my last Jaw War event while as an Undergraduate student here. I attend as the spirit leads really. But, majorly for my Hall of Residence. Well, I think the culture of public speaking that has been built around the Jaw War event is beautiful to see. It has become an integral part of the second Semester, and a lot of folks anticipate it. My Hall’s representative lives next door, the fervour with which he prepares, his recitation of his speech and all; although a funny memory, would stick with me.