Speaker’s National Debating Competition: Helpful Hands edges Child Rights Ambassadors to claim title

In a narrow victory, the opposition team, Helpful Hands Youth Group triumphed over the proposing team, Child Rights Ambassadors in the final of the Speaker’s National Youth Debating Competition on Thursday.
Led to victory by the outstanding efforts of Best Speaker Nygil Drepaul, the team engaged in a significant battle against skilled debaters with limited speaking time.
Drepaul highlighted the team’s adherence to the notion that “You must not put all your eggs in one basket,” emphasising economic diversification.
“The proposing team must focus on other sectors and not only infrastructure. Our economy cannot afford to be rooted solely in infrastructure. Diversifying our economy is similar to planting a garden with a variety of crops; each sector nurtures the other, creating a resilient ecosystem. We must focus on other sectors,” the budding parliamentarian stated.

Additionally, he urged his opponents to prioritise current infrastructure, stressing the importance of maintaining existing infrastructure. After the competition, Drepaul, who was advised by Minister Sonia Parag, received a round of applause from the entire chamber for his compelling remarks.
The proposing team discussed key reasoning as to why there should be a significant focus on the growth of infrastructural development throughout the country.
Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir highlighted the significant growth of youth debates since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, noting a substantial increase in participation. “Prior to today’s event, there have been 114 youth debates over the past four years.”
The Speaker also stated that the competition is just the beginning of many opportunities for youth.
“We are excited to announce that we will participate in the Commonwealth Youth Parliament in New Zealand this year. The top two performers from last year will be representing us.”
Furthermore, Nadir announced that the best speakers from Thursday’s competition will advance to the regional youth debates, providing even more avenues for young debaters to showcase their skills.
In addition, Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Ganesh Mahipaul declared this year’s competition the best in years.
“Last year, I said that I didn’t think there would be another youth debate finals as remarkable as that, but this year has proven otherwise,” he stated. “Today, we had an even better and more intense debate. Our young people have evolved through this process, demonstrating their true ability to stand firm and strong. You are not just the future; you are cementing your future. Part of bettering our country is ensuring we partake in events like these. To the parents and those watching from afar, this is a message to you.”
Awards were presented to both final teams and other participants who demonstrated key public speaking skills in the previous rounds.
The proposing team, The Child Rights Ambassadors, consisted of Ayda Man, Jayda Overton, Ziya Bacchus, and Attiya Griffith while the opposing team included Abiane Saul, Sherlyn Pantlitz, and Nygil Drepaul.