The stage is set, the teams are ready, and the debates are about to ignite as the first round of the 2025 Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition begins on January 28.
Organised by Miss Trudy Christian, with support from the Dominica State College (DSC) Literary and Debating Society and other partners, this annual competition has become a hallmark event, showcasing the intellectual prowess and oratory skills of Dominica’s brightest young minds.
The week will open with a fiery debate centered on the topic: “Skills-based learning has become more relevant than formal academic training in meeting the economic needs of Dominica.” The Isaiah Thomas Secondary School (ITSS) will propose the motion, while the Portsmouth Secondary School (PSS) opposes. The St. Martin Secondary School (SMSS), the proposing side, will face off against the Castle Bruce Secondary School (CBSS), delving into the same issue.
The intensity continues on January 29, with debates tackling a deeply relevant and socially charged issue, “Adolescents who have reached the age of consent should not require parental consent to acquire reproductive and sexual health services in Dominica.”
The Saint Mary’s Academy (SMA) will debate in favour, while the Dominica Grammar School (DGS) takes the opposing stance. In a parallel match-up, the Pierre Charles Secondary School (PCSS) will propose, facing off against the Goodwill Secondary School (GSS), which will oppose.
The week’s debates will conclude on January 30 with the topic, “The recent body positivity movement is dangerous because it has led to the desensitization of adolescents to the health risks associated with obesity.” The Convent High School (CHS) will argue in favour of the motion, while the Wesley High School (WHS) presents the opposing view.
All debates will take place at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus, beginning at 2:30 p.m.
The reigning champions, Orion Academy, will join the fray in February during the second round, with the semi-finals scheduled for March and the grand finals in April.
The competition, revitalised three years ago after a lengthy hiatus, according Ms Christian, who is also the Interim President of the DSC, this has been instrumental in fostering critical thinking, research skills, and public speaking among Dominican students.
She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the participating schools for their enthusiasm and to the sponsors for their steadfast support, while encouraging the public to show up and support the youth.
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