The East African Community Secretariat has started the process that will lead to the appointment of new ‘youth ambassadors’ in the five partner states.

The second annual EAC university students’ debate on the bloc’s integration process is slated for September 2-3, the EAC Secretariat has said.

The best debaters, one from each partner state, are appointed EAC youth ambassadors to their respective countries.

The upcoming debate will be held under the theme: "Understanding the opportunities and challenges arising from the EAC integration for youth in East Africa”.

The debates aim at promoting continuous dialogue among the EAC youth and to interest them in advocating for regional integration initiatives.

The first debate took place in August, last year, at the EAC Secretariat in Arusha, Tanzania.

The debate in September will be moderated by five judges who are well versed with the EAC integration process.

Six participants will be drawn from tertiary institutions in each of the five EAC partner states.

Applicants are expected to write an essay on the theme, according to an EAC Secretariat statement.

"The essay should not exceed two pages, bookman old style font with single line spacing.  Applicants are required to attach their CVs, copies of their national ID and university identity card," the statement adds.

Participation in the debate is limited to students who are in their second year at the university pursuing a degree.

Meanwhile, the outgoing EAC Youth Ambassadorial team is organising the first-ever EAC Youth Convention, scheduled later this year in Kigali.