Five schools advance to the second round of inter-secondary debate competition

Editor’s note: The five schools advancing to the next level of competition are: the Portsmouth Secondary School, St. Martin Secondary School, St Mary’s Academy, Pierre Charles Secondary School, and Wesley High School.

The first round of the Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition in Dominica has concluded with five schools securing their place in the next stage. These teams will now prepare to challenge reigning champions Orion Academy in what promises to be an electrifying second round.

The week’s debates opened with a riveting discussion 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) argued in favour of the motion, while the Portsmouth Secondary School (PSS) opposed it. In the end, PSS, represented by Maliah Ettienne and Roxanne Andre, emerged victorious, with Ettienne earning the title of Best Speaker.

The same motion was debated by the St. Martin Secondary School (SMSS) and Castle Bruce Secondary School (CBSS). Representing SMSS, Rihanna Alexander and Kurdez Simon secured a win with 558 points over CBSS’s 547. Despite her team’s loss, Kiana St. Jean of CBSS was recognised as the Best Speaker of this debate.

On January 29, another round of compelling debates unfolded, tackling the topic: “Adolescents who have reached the age of consent should not require parental consent to acquire reproductive and sexual health services in Dominica.”

Saint Mary’s Academy (SMA) argued in favour, while Dominica Grammar School (DGS) opposed. In a closely contested match, DGS, represented by Rene Talbert and Abigail Winston, triumphed with 663 points over SMA’s 625. Talbert was also named Best Speaker.

Simultaneously, Pierre Charles Secondary School (PCSS) and Goodwill Secondary School (GSS) debated the same motion. The duo from PCSS, Myra Dover and Chénika Alexander, secured victory, ensuring their progression to the next round. Dover copped the award for Best Speaker of this match.

The final debate of the week, held on January 30, explored 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.”

Convent High School (CHS) supported the motion, while Wesley High School (WHS) countered it. WHS, represented by Niola Alleyne and Adoré Defoe, claimed victory with 637 points against CHS’s 595. Defoe also earned the Best Speaker award.

With these five schools advancing, the competition will continue with the quarterfinals on February 19 and 20, followed by the semifinals in March and the grand finals in April.

After a long hiatus, this debate series was revived three years ago and has since played a pivotal role in enhancing critical thinking, research abilities, and public speaking skills among Dominican students.

Ms. Trudy Christian, lead organiser of the competition and Interim President of the Dominica State College (DSC), expressed satisfaction with the event’s progress, emphasising that the opening week showcased the students’ talent and dedication. She noted that the upcoming rounds promise to be even more intense and engaging.

With strong support from DSC’s Literary and Debating Society and key partners, including this year’s headline sponsor Josephine Gabriel & Co. Ltd., the annual competition has become a premier platform for showcasing the intellectual and rhetorical abilities of Dominica’s brightest young debaters.

Ms. Christian extended her gratitude to the schools, debaters, sponsors, judges, and all contributors who have played a role in making the event a success.