Archive · 26 Aug 2026
Beyond 8 Programme Encourages Students to Debate Respectfully
Beyond 8 held a two-day programme called Samvaada for students.
It took place on August 24 and 25 in Bengaluru.
Students from different schools debated various ideas.
The goal was not just to win an argument.
Students first tried to understand what another person was saying.
They also practised listening, asking questions and thinking carefully.
The programme encouraged students to notice when their own ideas changed.
Organisers said these skills can help young people communicate better in school and society.
Beyond 8 held its two-day Samvaada learning programme on August 24 and 25 in Bengaluru.
The programme brought together students from different schools and backgrounds at the Beyond 8 Learning Centre in Koramangala.
Unlike conventional debates focused on winning, Samvaada emphasised understanding opposing viewpoints before responding.
Activities included workshops, preliminary debates, qualifier rounds, reflection sessions, a third-place debate and a final.
Organisers said the programme aimed to build listening, critical-thinking, confidence and respectful engagement skills.
- Who
- Beyond 8 and learners from different schools and backgrounds participated in the programme.
- What
- Samvaada: Debate to Understand was a two-day learning programme focused on constructive disagreement, listening and reflection.
- When
- August 24 and 25.
- Where
- The Beyond 8 Learning Centre in Koramangala, Bengaluru.
- Why
- To help students understand differing viewpoints, question their assumptions and engage respectfully with disagreement.
- Programme
- Samvaada: Debate to Understand
- Organiser
- Beyond 8
- Duration
- Two days
- Dates
- August 24 and 25
- Venue
- Beyond 8 Learning Centre, Koramangala, Bengaluru
- Participants
- Learners from different schools and backgrounds
- Featured skills
- Listening, questioning, critical thinking and reflection