Archive · 6 Nov 2025
Clifford Hicks International Debate 2025 Sparks Lively Discussions
Imagine a big competition where students from all over come to a school to have important discussions, like a big, friendly argument.
This competition was called the Clifford Hicks International Debate.
Besides the main debates, students also had smaller chats and discussions about things like life skills, online bullying, and even how ads try to make you want things.
Some students came from far away, like Pune, and did really well.
One student even got an award for being the best speaker, chosen by the audience!
It was a chance for students to learn how to speak in front of people and share their ideas on different topics.
Some debates were about whether schools should teach cooking instead of just books.
Others talked about if it's okay for ads to use tricks to get you to buy things.
The whole event was a fun way for students to practice talking, listen to others, and make new friends.
The 9th Clifford Hicks International Debate 2025 was held from October 28 to November 1 at Calcutta Boys’ School, involving over 360 students.
Mini-debates and discussions occurred on topics such as Sonam Wangchuck, peer pressure, social media, and online bullying.
The Bishop’s Co-Ed School from Pune excelled in Category II, debating the inclusion of life skills in the core curriculum.
Xavier Nongmaithem from Pune was awarded Optimus Orator (best speaker by audience vote) in Category II.
La Martiniere for Girls won Category I, which debated the ethics of persuasive advertising techniques.
- Who
- Over 360 students from India and abroad, debating in the 9th Clifford Hicks International Debate 2025.
- What
- An international debate competition that fostered numerous side discussions on various topics, including life skills, social issues, and advertising ethics.
- When
- From October 28 to November 1.
- Where
- Calcutta Boys’ School.
- Why
- To engage students in debate, critical thinking, and interaction on diverse and relevant topics.
Arguments For Including Life Skills in Curriculum
Arguments Against Prioritizing Life Skills
Life Skills vs. Theoretical Subjects
Arguments For Including Life Skills in Curriculum
The motion 'This house believes that instead of theoretical subjects, life skills such as cooking and personal finance should be included in the school core curriculum' was debated.
Arguments Against Prioritizing Life Skills
This reflects a debate on the balance between theoretical knowledge and practical life skills in education.
Morality of Advertising Techniques
Arguments For Including Life Skills in Curriculum
The motion 'This house believes that the use of psychological and persuasive techniques in advertising is morally wrong and unacceptable' was debated, with students arguing that 'Advertisements are not persuading you to buy something. They are persuading you to need it.'
Arguments Against Prioritizing Life Skills
Counterarguments stated 'Persuasion is not a crime. The intent is communication.'
- Event Name
- 9th Clifford Hicks International Debate 2025
- Dates
- October 28 - November 1
- Location
- Calcutta Boys’ School
- Participants
- Over 360 students from India and abroad
- Categories
- Category II (Classes IX-X), Category I (Classes XI-XII)