Kolkata: Calcutta Boys’ School hosted the 10th edition of the Clifford Hicks International Debate, with participation from more than 83 schools from India and abroad, marking a significant milestone in its continued efforts to promote intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and effective communication among young learners. The prestigious debating platform brought together a vibrant gathering of young minds and aspiring speakers from across different regions and countries.
The 10th edition provided students with a dynamic platform to engage in meaningful discussions, examine diverse viewpoints and present their arguments with clarity, confidence and logical reasoning. The participation of schools from different regions and countries also added a wider dimension to the event, encouraging students to exchange ideas and gain exposure to varied perspectives.
The Clifford Hicks International Debate has continued to encourage students to go beyond conventional classroom learning and develop skills that are essential for their academic and personal growth. Through research, structured argumentation and public speaking, participants were encouraged to analyse issues critically, substantiate their views and engage respectfully with opposing opinions.
Mr. Raja McGee, Principal & Secretary, Calcutta Boy’s School, said, “This year we are hosting the 10th edition of the Clifford Hicks International Debate. This is a debate hosted by The Calcutta Boys’ School since 2015 in memory of former principal, late Mr. Clifford Hicks, who himself was an ace debater. This year we have 83 schools from India and abroad participating, with more than 300 participants in total. The event spans over 5 days—comprising two days of prelims, one day of semifinals, and two days of finals.”
The event also highlighted the importance of debating in developing leadership qualities, confidence, analytical abilities and effective communication skills among students. The interaction between participants from diverse educational backgrounds created opportunities for constructive dialogue while reinforcing the values of respect, discipline and informed expression.
The successful completion of the 10th edition reaffirmed Calcutta Boys’ School’s commitment to providing students with opportunities that extended beyond academics and contributed to their holistic development. Through initiatives such as the Clifford Hicks International Debate, the school continued to create platforms that encouraged students to think independently, communicate responsibly and engage with the world around them.
