Debaters Thrive in Quarter-Finals of the XXVI Rev. Dr. Samuel Slater Memorial Invitational English Debates – Semi-Finals Await

The Quarter-Finals of the XXVI Rev. Dr. Samuel Slater Memorial Invitational English Debates on Day 3, October 29, 2023, tackled a contemporary and thought-provoking topic: “Digital Experiences are becoming human.” Convent of Jesus and Mary, Shimla supported the proposition, while St James School, Kolkata opposed it.

The debate showcased an impressive exchange of ideas, with the proposition highlighting the growing importance of digital services in our daily lives, exemplified by “Siri” and “Alexa.” On the other hand, the opposition emphasized the significance of human connections, quoting the saying, “A realm where digital experiences grow, this digital world which lacks a kindred soul’s grace.” This implies that human connections should never be underestimated in comparison to Artificial Intelligence.

St James Kolkata triumphed in this philosophical battle, securing a place in the Semi-Finals by defeating last year’s runner-up, Convent of Jesus and Mary, Chelsea, Shimla.

The debate that left the audience and judges in awe involved The Cathedral and John Connon School, Mumbai, representing the proposition, and La Martiniere for Girls, Kolkata, representing the opposition. The motion was “Climate change is a subset of Geopolitics.” The proposition argued that “Global Warming” might alter borders in the distant future. In contrast, the opposition contended that climate change is a short-term issue that could be solved through technological advancements and, therefore, should not be considered a subset of geopolitics.

The motion was decided in favor of La Martiniere for Girls, Kolkata, who were former victors of this event but faced stiff competition from The Cathedral and John Connon School, Mumbai.

The two outstanding teams, St James School Kolkata and La Martiniere Girls’ College, Lucknow, along with Mallinson Girls School, Srinagar, and La Martiniere for Girls, Kolkata, have qualified for the Semi-Finals. The ultimate showdown of their academic prowess is scheduled for October 30, 2023, in the Irwin Hall, where one team will emerge as the victor.