Last Friday, two EIC teams took part in their first debate competition at Swan’s school. Both teams took part in three prepared debates, arguing issues over the right to sell organs, the role of religion in society, and governmental subcontracting services. Both teams performed admirably—a testament to their debating skills—winning all of their debates, as well as high praise from the judges. Despite six wins from six debates, the rules of the competition meant that only one team progressed to the semifinals. After a hard-fought debate, the EIC team emerged victorious and moved on to the final. Another tough debate followed, considering the issues surrounding banning countries with poor human rights records from sporting competition, with the EIC team not quite able to win the judges over, as the host team took the final prize. Congratulations to Anna, Ian, Javi, Luca, Marcos, and Oscar from the undefeated team, and to the finalists, Alfia, Danila, Elina, Hao, Nico, and Will, for their high-quality debating, rigorous preparation, teamwork, and sportsmanship. The experience will stand them in good stead as their debating journey continues.
