The 2024 Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Championship has entered a crucial phase following an intellectually rigorous second round that saw eight institutions vying for advancement. According to official communications, the tournament’s second round commenced on February 25th, featuring three days of intense rhetorical competition characterized by sophisticated argumentation and strategic rebuttals.
The opening debate featured Wesley High School advocating for the motion while Portsmouth Secondary School argued in opposition. The contentious topic addressed whether parents, rather than educational institutions, should hold primary responsibility for disciplining students involved in digital peer-to-peer violence beyond school hours. Wesley High’s delegation, comprising Hephzibah Ademola and Niola Alleyne, presented a meticulously structured argument that secured 662 points, defeating Portsmouth’s team of Kerensa Joseph and Angeline Duogene who achieved 558 points. Ademola’s commanding oratory skills earned her the Best Speaker distinction.
Later that same day, Isaiah Thomas Secondary School successfully defended the proposition against Convent High School in another closely contested match. The team of Kianna Aaron and Allick Stedman accumulated 625 points, surpassing their opponents’ 590 points. Aaron’s compelling delivery was recognized with the Best Speaker honor.
On February 26th, the thematic focus shifted to public health policy, with participants debating whether nutritional education proves more effective than dietary restrictions in preventing non-communicable diseases among adolescents. Defending champions Dominica Grammar School, represented by Micaela Benjamin and Lydia Joseph, advanced with a score of 658 points against Castle Bruce Secondary’s 597 points. Joseph received the Best Speaker award for her exemplary performance.
The final debate of this round occurred on March 4th, featuring St. Martin Secondary School against Orion Academy debating the same public health motion. St. Martin’s delegates Shanaiyah John and Kurdez Simon delivered an exceptional performance, achieving the round’s highest score of 681 points against Orion’s 623 points. Simon’s outstanding rhetorical prowess earned him Best Speaker recognition.
Tournament organizer Trudy Christian commended all participants for their dedicated preparation and sophisticated argumentation techniques. The competition received substantial support from headline sponsor Josephine Gabriel & Co. Ltd., with additional sponsorship from Central Cooperative Credit Union, DOMLEC, ICWI, KFC, Lindo Mart, and Dominica Social Security, all recognized for their sustained commitment to educational development.