A Report On Iv Prabhjot Baruah Memorial Inter -School English Debate 2023-24
"Debate is the best way to test the strength of your ideas." - Sharad Vivek Sagar
Delhi Public School, Mathura Road organised the IV Prabhjot Baruah Memorial Inter-School English Debate for the students of Classes IV and V on 24 August 2023. The motion before the house was, ‘Social Media has Improved Human Communication’ to which the young debaters could relate personally. The event saw enthusiastic participation from 12 distinguished schools. The event witnessed an ebullient exchange of opinions and views.
The event saw an assemblage of eminent judges such as Mr Amit Arora, Journalist, Newsreader, Anchor, Radio Jockey, Quiz Master and an illustrious Commentator; Dr Archna Tyagi Senior Research Fellow with Center for Military History and Conflict and Ms Arunima, Editor at CNN News 18.
The event commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp followed by a presentation on how technology is rapidly changing our everyday interactions. The school Principal, Ms Reema Sharma, Vice Principal (Academics), Ms Monica Sahni and Vice Principal (Administration), Mr Naveen Kumar felicitated the dignitaries. The Principal, in her address, emphasised that the advent of social media has brought about transformative shifts in various aspects of life. She also pointed out that social media not only reshapes the way people communicate, but also alters their daily routines; it is indeed undeniable that the profound influence of social media affects contemporary generations across different walks of life.
During the debate, participants highlighted the transformative impact of technology on our lives. They stressed that social media platforms have revolutionised how we connect, making communication faster and more convenient than ever before. This viewpoint led to a range of differing opinions, such as concerns about over-reliance on online interactions affecting faceto- face communication skills. These perspectives also addressed the potential drawbacks of excessive screen time and reduced personal interaction due to the prevalence of social media in our lives.
The panel of judges, Ms. Arunima, Mr. Amit Arora, and Dr. Archna Tyagi, expounded their observations to the assembled audience, commending the eloquence and acumen demonstrated by the speakers. They provided guidance on avenues through which the debaters could further improve and grow intellectually. The results were declared shortly after. The first position was bagged by Sara Kanwar from DPS Vasant Kunj. Adwaitaa Singh, also from DPS Vasant Kunj, secured the second position. The third position was bagged by Avika Bansal from The Indian School. Vir Chadha from, DPS Mathura Road, was presented with the Prabhjot Baruah Award for the Best Orator. The rolling trophy was awarded to DPS Vasant Kunj in recognition of their outstanding performance.
The Headmistress, Ms Manisha Varma gave the vote of thanks. She expressed admiration for the extensive research conducted by each speaker and conveyed her gratitude to the judges for dedicating their precious time. The event concluded with the rendition of the national anthem.