Frank Anthony Memorial All-India Inter-School Debate Competition
On the 10th of July 2023, NPS International, Chennai hosted the FRANK ANTHONY MEMORIAL ALL-INDIA INTER-SCHOOL DEBATE COMPETITION, Category II, stage I. Nine schools participated in this prestigious debate competition.
The speakers from the participating schools accompanied by a teacher and the judges for the debate competition arrived at the venue by 8.45 am. After partaking in the breakfast provided, a brief inaugural ceremony was conducted.
The ceremony began with the recitation of a Shloka invocating the blessings of the divine. A few words extolling the greatness of Mr Frank Anthony were expressed. The moderator then introduced the judges for the event.
At 9:30 am, the seal of the envelope containing the topic for the debate was broken and the same was announced to one and all present, particularly the speakers for the event. The speakers were then escorted to the library for their stipulated 1-hour preparation time.
The debate began on schedule. The school which had picked lot number 1 began with their speaker who spoke for the motion and then the other member spoke against the topic. The speakers of the participating schools continued in this similar manner according to the lot number drawn.
The debaters confidently put forth their arguments. Their grasp and understanding of the topic were visible when they defended their statements during the rebuttal round. The questions posed were very relevant and appropriate.
The speakers were most respectful of each other and consciously steered clear of unparliamentary and derogatory comments.
The debate concluded, the judge’s sheet was tabulated and when the participants and judges returned after their lunch the results were ready to be announced.
The best speaker was Sanskriti Sandeep of Shishya OMR School.
The 1st runner-up speaker was Sebastian Xavier from Chettinad Harishree Vidyalayam
Chettinad Harishree Vidyalayam was adjudged the winning school. Certificates were handed over to all the winning participants.
The debate competition was brought to a close with the National Anthem.
