Abu Dhabi: Nine students from Abu Dhabi Indian School (ADIS), Al Wathba, have bagged the opportunity to represent the UAE in the prestigious Heart of Europe International Debate Tournament (HOEIDT).
Originally meant for only European countries, HOEIDT is now an annual global event.
Organised by the Association of Debate Clubs of Olomouc Region, the tournament is aimed at high school students.
The students, divided into three teams, will be the first to represent the UAE in the tournament which is being be held in Olomouc, a city in the eastern province of Moravia in the Czech Republic from July 11 to 16.
Rigorous process
As one of the most prestigious international debating tournaments in Europe, HOEIDT attracts students from more than 50 countries. It follows the world school debate style and consists of eight preliminary rounds, three breaking rounds and a grand finale. The teams were selected through a rigourous process of screening. “Our students have proved their competent skills in the regional sphere and hope to make their mark in Europe as well,” said principal Shibanti Bhowmik.
Jisha Oommen, head of the Literary Club, said participating in the tournament will help students enrich their learning experiences.
Topics
The topics of the first round include ‘Should cryptocurrency be banned?’ and ‘Should journalism be separated from advertisement?’
The second round consists of impromptu topics, and the Grand Finale will cover the topic ‘Speed of Europe’. All candidates have to speak for and against each topic.
Deputy head girl Aribah Khan said that the platform provided an exciting opportunity to understand global concerns and cultural contexts.
Ben Jose, Literary Club President, said that it was an opportunity to learn and analyse different notions and concepts.
