Arguments in Favor (Yes, Handwriting Should Be a Competition Subject)
Handwriting remains a foundational skill for young learners, and promoting it through healthy competitions can greatly improve students' writing abilities. By making handwriting a competition subject, schools encourage neatness, legibility, and consistency—skills essential in both academics and formal communication.
Competitions add excitement to learning and motivate students to improve their fine motor skills and presentation. In a digital age where typing dominates, handwriting contests serve as a reminder of the importance of manual writing, which enhances cognitive function and memory retention.
Handwriting competitions can also promote discipline, patience, and pride in written work. For students with artistic talents or an eye for detail, such contests provide a platform to showcase their strengths. It also levels the playing field for students who may not excel in spoken debates or athletic events but can shine in written expression.
Furthermore, making handwriting a recognized subject for competitions can preserve cultural scripts and calligraphy traditions, especially in Nigeria, where students often learn cursive and indigenous writing systems.
Arguments Against (No, Handwriting Should Not Be a Competition Subject)
On the flip side, critics argue that handwriting competitions place unnecessary pressure on students for a skill that is becoming less relevant in the modern world. With the rise of digital tools, typing and voice-to-text features have largely replaced the need for extended handwritten tasks.
Handwriting quality is often influenced by physical or neurological conditions such as dysgraphia or fine motor challenges. Making it a competitive subject may unfairly disadvantage some students and affect their self-esteem.
Opponents also argue that educational focus should shift toward digital literacy, coding, and practical subjects rather than penmanship contests. The time and resources used in preparing for handwriting competitions could be better spent on developing 21st-century skills that are more relevant for future careers.
Finally, judging handwriting competitions is highly subjective. What one judge considers neat or artistic may not appeal to another, potentially leading to bias or controversy. This raises questions about fairness and consistency in evaluating students.
Conclusion
While handwriting may seem old-fashioned in today’s tech-driven world, it still holds value in education and communication. Turning it into a competition subject can promote important skills, but it must be approached with sensitivity to student diversity. A balanced approach would include handwriting appreciation without making it a source of stress or exclusion.
