Thirty-four secondary schools are participating in the debate on the East African Community (EAC) integration issues that commenced yesterday at provincial levels.The provincial debate follows the completion of the first stage held at district levels between June and July.The  first stage saw some 60 schools debating.The initiative, organised by the Ministry of East African Community Affairs, is aimed at enhancing knowledge among the students on benefits, opportunities and challenges for the regional integration project.Purpose of debateIt’s also intended to reinforce awareness on EAC integration process among students, teachers, parents and the community at large."We shall select the best five schools for the national competitions and the winners will be awarded,” said Florence Batoni, the communication advisor in the Ministry of East African Community Affairs.She, however, did not elaborate on the nature of the awards.Integration processAccording to Batoni, the debate is also expected to promote competitive spirit and develop students’ skills in public speaking as well as create positive attitudes of students and their communities toward the EAC integration.Lack of awareness has been cited among the issues affecting the integration process that has dragged on for years.Some of the participating schools that have qualified on provincial level are ES Kagarama, Lycee Notre Dames de Cîteaux, Fawe Girls’ Education ES Kanombe, Kiziguro S.S and G.S Nyagatare.