An interesting and engaging debate was organized by Ashoka House in the Secondary block at St. Joseph’s Sr. Sec school, Sector 44.Students debated on the topic, ‘Are declarations pathways to peace making?’ The topic was significant, especially after the recently concluded G20 Summit in New Delhi.

Students who spoke in favour of the topic emphasized on how declarations clearly articulate a commitment to peace, helping parties involved understand each other’s intentions and objectives. They often align with international norms and principles, reinforcing the importance of peace in the global community. By publicly declaring a commitment to peace, parties can deter potential conflicts and encourage peaceful resolution of disputes. Speakers spoke on how declarations can serve as diplomatic tools, facilitating negotiations and dialogue between conflicting parties. One of the participants stated how over a period of time, consistent declarations of peace can build trust among nations, reducing the likelihood of conflict. Participants stressed on the importance of these declarations in laying the foundation for the development of conflict resolution frameworks leading to negotiations and the drafting of peace agreements. Students who were not in favour of the topic highlighted on why declarations alone are insufficient to achieve lasting peace, but can in the long run, serve as important starting points towards peaceful resolution of conflicts. Haramrit Kaur and Saanvi Manhas secured the first and second positions in the best speakers category. Tagore House bagged the position of the winning team.

The members of the Management, Mr. Sukhdeep Singh and Mr. Paramdeep Singh Grewal   were appreciative of the House on duty that conducted this debate. They emphasized on how debates help students gather information to support their arguments, fostering research and information-gathering abilities. They also stressed on how debating helps students improve their public speaking, persuasion, and communication skills, which are valuable in both academic and professional settings.

The Principal Ms. Monica Chawla was all praise for these young debaters and while addressing the participants spoke on how declarations can symbolize a shift in mindset from hostility to cooperation, fostering a more peaceful atmosphere. She also emphasized on how declarations can signify a long-term commitment to peace, helping to sustain peace-building efforts over time. She hoped that many such debates would be conducted in the coming weeks to provide enriching educational experiences and promoting intellectual growth, communication proficiency, and critical thinking abilities of young minds.

St. Joseph’s Sr. Sec. School