Article for NIE
Inter-house Debate Competition
As a centuries-old custom, the art of debate continues to be one of the best methods to spark meaningful conversation, encourage critical thinking, and foster polite dialogue. Whether it occurs in a formal setting like a political discussion or informally, among friends, debate plays a key role in forming our perception of complex topics, honing our arguments, and enhancing our communication skills.
Vidya Valley School held an Inter-house Debate Competition on the motion “Media Content Should have Strict Regulations” on 20th September 2023. The highlight of the event was that it had been organised for the students, by the students.
Vidya Valley is proud to acknowledge the initiatives of Debate Committee who, with assistance from the Editorial Team – were able to organise the entire event effortlessly. Students across grades 8th to 12th were allowed to compete and earn points for their houses. The senior school as a whole was given the opportunity to spectate the event, allowing them to be influenced by what they witnessed on stage.
Each of the 16 representatives confidently expressed their thoughts on the justification, application, and potential long-term impacts of stringent media laws. Unsurprisingly, it sparked a wide range of contrasting opinions, from being heralded as an inevitable future to being seen as an achievable goal that could result in a more inclusive society where people could progress.
The research, expression, and delivery was put together so flawlessly, that the audience members themselves were undecided on which side to support as the debate came to a close. Not to mention, the rebuttal round – that undoubtedly, was the most heated part of the discussion – demonstrated the capacity for critical thinking that the students had successfully developed over time.
Three judges were chosen to judge the competition in order to guarantee that there were no conflicts of interest. One of them was Mrs. Nalini Sengupta, our very own principal, who has an expertise in the English language; and Mr. P.K. Sengupta, an ardent reader who possesses insightful opinions on a range of themes. The school also welcomed Mrs. Hemangi Joglekar, a speech and drama specialist, who even provided each speaker with advice and personal tips on how to improve, after the debate.
To conclude, the debate provided an opportunity for each student present to acquire something new. Be it knowledge, skill, attitude, or perspective. There were numerous takeaways from the event and it served as an ultimate source of confidence and motivation. As we navigate the challenges of the digital age, it is more important than ever to embrace the art of debate as a means of seeking truth, understanding differing perspectives, and building a more informed and inclusive society.
~ Geet Shah
Class 9C
