On November 18, around 36 students of 12 leading Kolkata colleges came face-to-face for Jefferson Debates 2024 hosted by US Consulate Kolkata and iLEAD. The annual inter-college debate offers a platform for young minds to speak on current relevant topics.
The motion for this year was, ‘Is increased military cooperation between the US and India vital for maintaining regional stability in Asia?’ The eleventh edition of the student debate witnessed two students from each school speak for and against the motion while one student helped with research. The participating schools were St Xavier’s College, Presidency College, Jadavpur University, Scottish Church College, Loreto College, Lady Brabourne College, Shri Shikshayatan College, Sanskrit College and University, iLEAD, Calcutta University, Sister Nibedita University and Adamas University.
St Xavier’s College emerged as the winner
Kathy Giles-Diaz, consul-general, US Consulate, addressing the students said: “Debates teach us how to think critically, listen to opposing views, and articulate our beliefs with respect and conviction. Your participation today exemplifies the power of thoughtful discourse in shaping the world around us. As students, you have the unique opportunity to shape the future of the US-India relationship. Your thoughts matter. Your opinions matter. Your voices matter. You represent the next generation of leaders who will continue to shape the ties between our two nations.”
iLEAD grabbed the position of the first runners-up followed by Jadavpur University as the second runners-up
St Xavier’s College emerged as the winner, while iLEAD grabbed the position of the first runners-up followed by Jadavpur University as the second runners-up. Shoibayon Ganguly, St Xavier’s College was awarded the best speaker. The judges for the event were Miguel Diaz, spouse of US consul-general Kathy Giles-Diaz; Syed Asif R. Gardezi, management officer, US Consulate Kolkata and Somrita Ganguly, professor of English at a private college. Elizabeth Lee, director, American Center Kolkata was the moderator of the event.