On Thursday, March 27, Brampton College hosted an unforgettable interschool debating competition, bringing together teams from Brampton College, Immanuel College, and JFS for an afternoon of passionate debate and thought-provoking discussion. The event buzzed with anticipation as students and teachers filled the hall, eager to witness a showcase of eloquence, conviction, and critical thinking. The air was charged with excitement, with whispers of strategy and last-minute preparations echoing as the clock ticked closer to the first debate.
Our College’s debating team rose to the occasion, displaying impressive resilience and skill despite being only six months old. The competition’s distinctive scoring system rewarded individual performance, making every speech crucial. The outcome remained uncertain until the very end, with speakers acutely aware that their performances could tip the scales. In a dramatic finish, Brampton College emerged in first place by a narrow margin – an impressive achievement for such a young team.
The competition featured three challenging motions, starting with This House Would Make Military Service Compulsory in Times of Crisis. The debate delved into civic duty, individual freedom, and national security, with speakers weighing the balance between personal liberty and collective responsibility. While the opposition raised valid concerns about militarisation and individual rights, the proposition made a compelling case, arguing that compulsory service in times of crisis was crucial for national security and unity. Their persuasive arguments ultimately won over the judges, securing a well-deserved victory.
The second motion, This House Would Prioritise Climate Change Mitigation Over Economic Growth, tackled the pressing issue of climate change. The proposition stressed the irreversible damage of inaction, advocating for long-term survival over short-term gains. The opposition argued that a strong economy is key to effective climate action, warning that over-prioritising sustainability could harm industries and economic stability. The debate was intense, with sharp exchanges and passionate arguments. Despite vigorous arguments from both sides, the judges were persuaded by the opposition’s case for balancing economic and environmental priorities.
This House Would Ban Private Companies from Funding Political Campaigns was the final motion, igniting a heated discussion on democracy, corruption, and the influence of money in politics. Debaters explored the line between free speech and political manipulation, with the proposition warning of a plutocracy where wealth dictates policy. Meanwhile, the opposition challenged the feasibility of such a ban, arguing that regulation – not prohibition – was the key to a fair and transparent political process. By the end, the audience was left to ponder difficult questions about representation, fairness, and the true nature of democracy. The proposition, however, won the debate, convincing the judges with their strong arguments on the risks of unchecked corporate influence and the need for a level playing field in political campaigns.
For Brampton’s debating team, this competition was a momentous occasion: an opportunity to showcase the dedication, resilience, and passion that have driven the team since its formation in September. In just a few short months, the team has shown unwavering dedication through fortnightly workshops and internal debates, refining their skills and strengthening their arguments. Selecting only six speakers to represent Brampton was no easy task; the entire team has worked relentlessly, and every member has proven their potential. Yet, it is clear now more than ever that Brampton’s debating team is going far. The talent, drive, and hunger for improvement are undeniable, and many more speakers will be given opportunities to shine on this stage in the future.
The judges, Pip Foster and Jude Andon from City University, listened intently, scribbling notes and evaluating each speaker’s individual performance. Their comments reflected the quality of debate that had filled the room, providing constructive feedback and commending speakers on a range of invaluable skills.
The future of Brampton’s debating team is undeniably bright. With a growing pool of talented, ambitious debaters and a commitment to continued growth, the team is poised to achieve even greater success. The competition may have ended, but our debating journey is just beginning.
By Limor, organiser of the event and student
