[Sender’s Address]
SS3A, Great Heights Secondary School,
No. 15, Olufemi Street,
Akure, Ondo State.
23rd September, 2025.
The Principal,
Great Heights Secondary School,
Akure, Ondo State.
Dear Sir,
REQUEST TO PARTICIPATE IN THE INTER-SCHOOL DEBATE COMPETITION
I humbly write to seek your permission and support to represent our school in the forthcoming inter-school debate competition scheduled to hold at Sunshine College, Akure, on 14th October, 2025.
Sir, I became aware of this competition through the official invitation letter sent to our school by the host institution, which was announced during the last morning assembly. As a student with great passion for public speaking and argument-based discussions, I am eager to participate and contribute positively to the image of our school.
I have been actively involved in debating activities since my junior secondary school days. Currently, I serve as the president of our school’s Debate and Literary Club. Under my leadership, the club has organized several successful in-house competitions, where I have consistently distinguished myself as an articulate speaker. In fact, I represented our school last year at the State Literary and Debate Contest and won the award for “Best Speaker.” These experiences have further sharpened my skills in research, critical thinking, and persuasive communication.
The theme of this year’s inter-school debate is: “Technology Has Done More Good Than Harm to Education.” This is a subject I have already begun researching. With my knowledge of information technology and my strong background in English Language and Literature, I am confident of presenting well-structured arguments supported by relevant facts, statistics, and examples.
Beyond personal interest, my participation will bring recognition and prestige to our school. Competitions of this nature expose students to healthy rivalry, broaden their knowledge, and build confidence in public communication. If permitted to participate, I will ensure that our school’s name is projected positively before other institutions within and outside Akure.
Sir, I kindly appeal for your approval, as well as any necessary guidance and resources the school can provide to aid my preparation. This may include access to the library, mentorship from English teachers, and financial support for transportation to the venue.
I assure you that I will be disciplined, dedicated, and committed to making our school proud. I look forward to your favorable consideration.
Thank you for your attention.
Yours faithfully,
(Signature)
Olawale Samuel
SS3A Student
What Examiners Want to See
- Correct Formal Format – addresses, date, salutation, subject line.
- Purpose of Letter – clear request to participate in debate competition.
- Qualifications – debating experience, leadership role, past awards.
- Preparedness – evidence of research and readiness for the given topic.
- Benefits – positive image and recognition for the school.
- Request for Support – approval, mentorship, and logistics.
- Tone – polite, confident, and respectful.
- Length – minimum 450 words with logical flow.
Tips for Students
- Mention past debating experiences and achievements.
- Show readiness by referencing the given topic/theme.
- Highlight the benefits to the school rather than personal gains.
- Always include a request for support/approval.
- Keep the tone formal, humble, and respectful.