Dominica Grammar School takes on champions Orion Academy at Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition

The Dominica Grammar School, represented by Rene Talbert and Tzaddi Trocard, is set to challenge the reigning champions, Orion Academy, represented by Madleah Fontaine and Jazz Maxwell, in the final showdown of the Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition 2025. The Dominica Grammar School has demonstrated impressive performance throughout this debate series, achieving victories over St. Mary’s Academy, St. Martin Secondary School, and Pierre Charles Secondary School in the preceding rounds, marking their inaugural progression to the finals.

Orion Academy, the defending champions from the 2024 edition of the competition, entered this year’s contest at Round 2. They have successfully defeated Wesley High School and Portsmouth Secondary School to secure their place in the final match once again.

These two fiercely competitive schools will debate a highly relevant topic in the finals: “Introducing stricter penalties for causing death by dangerous driving would effectively reduce vehicular fatalities in Dominica.” The coaching staff for the Dominica Grammar School includes Mrs. Dorcus Francis-Simon, while Mrs. Abigail Woodman and Miss Adeola Xavier mentor the Orion Academy team. A riveting final debate is anticipated, with the grand reward being an all expense-paid trip for four to St. Lucia.

The final debate is open to the public and will take place at 11 AM on Wednesday, April 16, at the Truth and Grace Fellowship Global. Major sponsors for the finals of the Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition include Dominica News Online, Josephine Gabriel & Co. Ltd, Insurance Company of the West Indies, National Cooperative Credit Union, Lindo Mart, Freeman Consulting LLC, Fort Young Hotel, and DBS Radio.