Andorra's Lycée Comte de Foix Excels in Regional Eloquence Competition

The Lycée Comte de Foix in Andorra has solidified its role in the Regional Eloquence Competition, an initiative that draws hundreds of schools from Occitania in France and culminates in a final in Albi. The programme helps students build confidence in public speaking and argumentation, skills integrated into the school's curriculum under the banner of "speaking and being heard."

Each year, participants tackle a set theme— this year, "resistance"—to craft a structured three-to-five-minute speech. Students begin by jotting down personal reflections, then collaborate in groups to develop arguments, gather references, and refine the delivery. Though only one voice presents it on stage, the final product reflects collective effort.

Mathieu Girard, a teacher involved in multiple editions, notes that writing a coherent argument poses the biggest initial challenge. Competitors must adhere to a clear structure, fit within strict time limits, control their volume and pacing, and more. Prizes matter, but the deeper gain lies in personal growth.

Madina Bobekar, who earned the "Coup de Coeur" award in 2023, credits the experience with boosting her everyday confidence. After delivering such a speech, she found job interviews and smaller presentations far less daunting. The following year, Laetitia Picart secured the same honour for her piece on "essential freedoms," overcoming profound shyness that had once kept her from national debate finals.

Being based outside France, where French is not the mother tongue for many, has become a hallmark for the Lycée. Juries often praise the students' Andorran accent, which winners like Bobekar have strategically highlighted as a cultural strength.

Even in less successful outings, such as this year's elimination of the Seconde GA group in Perpinyà for exceeding the time limit, participants emphasise the value gained. Mariana dos Santos, among those competing, and her peers reflected on issues like bullying, learning to speak out against injustice.

These achievements stem from teamwork, but each student leaves with greater assurance that their voice carries weight. At the Lycée Comte de Foix, the ability to communicate effectively—vital for society—is a skill taught deliberately.