In the conclusive clash of Round One in the Inter-Secondary School Debate Competition, Convent High School (CHS) clinched triumph over Wesley High School(WHS). Nia Williams and Thérèse Le Blanc, representing CHS as the opposing team, engaged in a spirited debate against Niola Alleyne and Deanna Mosely from WHS.
The topic under scrutiny was “Dominican students who receive government assistance to pursue higher education overseas should be obligated to return home for a set period after they have completed their studies.”
When the results were announced, the CHS secured a total of 529 points, while WHS garnered 486 points. The revelation of the results brought additional accolades, with Le Blanc receiving the award for the best speaker and Alleyne being recognized for delivering the best rebuttal in the debate.
In a post-victory interview with Dominica News Online (DNO), the triumphant ladies of the CHS expressed their happiness and highlighted the extensive effort and sleepless nights dedicated to preparation. They took the opportunity to encourage their peers to not only participate in competitions like these but also join clubs such as debating and
public speaking. They emphasized that such activities contribute to building confidence, refining speech and writing skills, and enhancing overall knowledge.
Joining the ranks of successful teams, CHS now stands alongside Orion Academy, represented by Dymond Daniel and Hafsah Francois, who was the first team to secure a spot in Round Two. Their victory in Round One on January 17, 2024, saw them triumph over Castle Bruce Secondary School (CBSS) with a score of 646 to 627 points, debating
the topic, “The privatization of the energy sector in Dominica is the only way to realize efficient service.”
Similarly, Amelia Charles and Jo-Annel Serrant secured a spot in the upcoming round for Isaiah Thomas Secondary School (ITSS) on January 18. They triumphed over opponents from St Martin Secondary School (SMSS) with a score of 642 to SMSS’s 586 points, debating the topic “There should be legislation introduced to restrict people from
smoking in public spaces.”
All successful schools from this round will advance to Round Two of the competition, scheduled for February 22 and 23, 2024. The second annual Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition, reinvigorated after a prolonged hiatus, is organized by the Dominica State College. The initiative is led by educator and Interim President of the DSC, Miss Trudy Christian, with support from partners and generous sponsors.
Good to see our students engaged in debates and other civic leadership pursuits. Congratulations to the CHS winners. I think one plays violin at the Christian Musical Class.
Kudos to Trudy Christian for her dedication to the culture of learning and civic duty on Dominica. God bless always