By Frederick Philander WINDHOEK A total of nine schools on Saturday took part in the start of the fifth annual Business Orators League for Secondary Schools in Namibia in the capital. The event is sponsored to the tune of N$45 000 by Bank Windhoek and Metropolitan Namibia. “The project was established in 2002 to assist school learners to improve their communication and business skills as a vital part of running a company. It is unfortunately so that more recognition is given to sports instead of oratory at school level. It is no secret that in acquiring skills to be a good public speaker, confidence is built and confident people are perceived to be leaders,” said the presenter of the event, Riaan van Rooyen. According to him participants are equipped to deliver professional business presentations. “All participants are afforded an equal opportunity in acquiring the necessary skills to be able to sell themselves professionally. This is a great opportunity, especially to those learners who will not be able to study further after completing Grade 12,” said Van Rooyen. The participating schools at Saturday’s event, included Ella du Plessis, Jacob Marengo, Okahandja Secondary School, Technical High School, DHPS, Hochland High, Jan Mohr, St Paul’s College and Windhoek Afrikaans Private School. A gala evening for the final event is planned for later this year.