SAI International School successfully hosts 5th edition of SAI Global Debate with participation of over 300 students from 32 schools

Mumbai, January 20, 2025: SAI International School, one of the country's leading CBSE board schools hosted the 5th Edition of the SAI Global Debate recently, demonstrating its dedication to fostering critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills among students. This notable online debate competition attracted over 300 participants from 32 schools across the nation, with the presence of esteemed guests Rittika Chanda Parruck, MBE, Director of Education at the British Council in India, as the chief guest, and Mr. John Snell, Executive Head of Schools, England, as the guest of honour, further elevating the event's intellectual significance.
 
The initiative, conceived by Founder, Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, aims to cultivate a generation of confident communicators and critically aware global citizens, equipped to contribute to a more inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable future for all.
 
The debate showcased outstanding performances across various formats, including Turncoat, Extempore, and Conventional Debate. In the junior category, the preliminary round addressed the ethicality of governmental or corporate censorship of information on the internet to combat misinformation. Students adeptly navigated the tension between free speech and the necessity of controlling misinformation, presenting compelling arguments that engaged the jury's attention. The final round focused on the topic “Virtual reality has had a tremendous impact on education methodologies,” prompting students to evaluate its transformative potential in learning while addressing challenges such as accessibility and dependency on technology.
 
The senior category tackled even more complex ethical issues. In their preliminary round, participants debated whether widespread digital surveillance by governments or corporations is ethically justifiable. The finals escalated the discussion with the topic “Do large tech companies hold too much power, posing ethical dilemmas for society?” Here, students critically examined monopolies, data privacy issues, and the ethical responsibilities of technology giants. The event's structure fostered an environment of rigorous research, persuasive rebuttals, and intellectual excellence.
 
Overall, the 5th SAI Global Debate not only provided a platform for meaningful discourse but also underscored SAI International School's pivotal role in nurturing future leaders and thinkers prepared to tackle contemporary global challenges.
 
Representing the capital, Bal Bharati Public School Dwarka, New Delhi, demonstrated exceptional debating prowess alongside Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Vidyasharam, K.M. Munshi Marg, Jaipur, and Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Vidyashram. Noteworthy institutions such as Blue Bells Model School, Buxi Jagabandhu English Medium School (both campuses), and the prestigious Choithram Schools from Indore and its North Campus enriched the event's diversity. Further enhancing the assembly were DAV Public School, Unit-8, Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar, DC Model Sr. Sec. School, KC Public School, and M.C. Kejriwal Vidyapeeth. Maria's Public School and Miles Bronson Residential School collaborated with ODM International School, Angul, and ODM Sapphire Global School. The event also included Rajkumar College, Raipur, and Rajmata Krishna Kumari Girls' Public School, Jodhpur. Additionally, Shiv Nadar School, Noida, Singapore International School, Mumbai, Sunbeam School Lahartara, The Sanskaar Valley School, and Welham Girls' School, Dehradun, participated, showcasing a rich blend of academic excellence. The debate also had an international element with the participation of Starehe Boys’ Centre & School from Kenya, reinforcing the event's global dimension.
 
In her address, Rittika Chanda Parruck, MBE, Director Education British Council, India, expressed her inspiration from witnessing young minds engage in meaningful discussions on themes that will influence modern society. She highlighted debates on topics such as digital surveillance, the influence of technology giants, and the boundaries of internet censorship, emphasizing the significance of responsible technology use. Moreover, she noted that discussions about how virtual reality is reshaping educational methodologies reflect students' foresight. Parruck stated, "Such platforms not only sharpen critical thinking but also build the leaders of tomorrow who will guide us through complex ethical landscapes." She praised the initiative led by SAI and wished the participants great success.
 
John Snell, in his capacity as guest of honor, expressed, “Debates of this caliber highlight the incredible potential of youth when provided with opportunities to explore complex global issues. As educators, our role is to cultivate critical thinking and guide students in understanding the interplay of ethics, innovation, and progress.”
 
Dr. Silpi Sahoo, Chairperson of SAI International Education Group, echoed these sentiments, expressing her inspiration by the vibrant assembly of youths grappling with global challenges through meaningful debates and innovative idea exchanges. She appreciated the active participation from numerous schools that contributed to making the global debate a resounding success. The event highlighted the dedication of students and educators alike in fostering critical discussions about pertinent issues, setting a strong foundation for future leaders.
 
"This platform goes beyond competition; it is a celebration of ideas, collaboration, and growth. It empowers young minds to engage in meaningful dialogue, explore diverse perspectives, and shape a more thoughtful and equitable future."
reflected, Nilakantha Panigrahi, Director Academics & Senior Principal, SAI International School.
 
Amitabh Agnihotri, Headmaster, SAI International Residential School (SIRS), lauded the initiative, saying, “Witnessing the brilliance of these young minds today fills me with optimism. The energy, eloquence, and depth of thought exhibited here assure us that the future is in capable hands. Such debates are not merely competitions but transformative experiences shaping tomorrow’s visionaries.”