Inter-University Debate Competition 2023 clinched by CCS team

The Inter-University Debate Competition 2023, organised by the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon (IChemC), was concluded last week, bringing together some of the most talented and competitive debaters from various universities across the country. The competition was a showcase of intellectual prowess, eloquence, and critical thinking skills.

The event took place at the IChemC premises, and Dr. Kushan Weerasiri, Chairperson of the Inter-University Debate Committee, initiated the proceedings by welcoming all the participants, the judges and the House. Following the welcome speech, Prof. Namal Priyantha, Acting Dean of the College of Chemical Sciences (CCS) addressed the gathering. Next, it was time for the battle rounds to begin.

The College of Chemical Sciences (CCS) debating team went head to head with the debating teams of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, University of Peradeniya, Rajarata University, and the University of Ruhuna. The competition was fierce, and the debaters were well-prepared to tackle the challenging arguments thrown at them by each opposing team. The debates were held in two sessions, where each team competed with all the other teams, under the league method. They were judged on their ability to present coherent and persuasive arguments, their use of evidence, and their skill in refuting opposing arguments.

The CCS team emerged victorious with a clean sweep of four scalps, against the other teams, having convinced the judges with their superior rhetorical skills and command of the topics. This year’s edition marks the first-time a CCS team winning the Inter-University Debate Competition, since its inaugural tournament, in 2007. University of Sri Jayewardenepura and the Rajarata University were placed runner-up and second runner-up, respectively.

Dr. Savidya Jayawardena officially concluded proceedings by delivering the vote of thanks.

The competition was a resounding success. The event was a testament to the importance of intellectual engagement and the role of universities in fostering critical thinking and reasoned discourse.