Excelsior Correspondent
SOPORE, Apr 28: The Indian Army held the semifinals of the Inter School Debate Competition at Sanctorum Institute, Sangrama which witnessed a very positive and hearty response from the students of the area.
More than 350 students gathered to witness the competition between 30 students from various schools vying for a place in the finals to be held on May 7, 2016.
Prior to the semifinals, total of 35 schools had participated in the prelims which were held in various schools covering the distt of Baramulla. The competition has been conducted in two groups comprising of students from IX & X in Category 1 & students from XI & XII in Category 2. Out of a total of 125 students who participated in the Prelims, 30 students were selected for the semifinals.
The semifinals were conducted in a very healthy atmosphere where students from both categories debated with each other. The efforts of all were to outdo each other by their views & counter views & stamp their authority on the subject, with each student also trying to earn a name for their school in the bargain. The jury for the event comprised of prominent figures from the area namely, Tariq Chalkoo from Degree College, Baramulla, Dr Masood from the District Hospital, Baramulla & Mr Khursheed from North Campus, Kashmir University, Delina. Prof Irshad Ah Wani Director, North Campus, Kashmir University was also present to grace the occasion in addition to the Commanding Officer of the local Army Unit. In a keenly contested event, four students in each category were selected for a place in the finals. They were felicitated with prizes & trophies to keep them motivated for the finals. Two more consolation prizes were also given in each category for a place in the finals.
The event was very well received by the students & there was palpable excitement amongst them in anticipation for the finals. The views expressed by all speakers were indicative of the winds of change & the positive turnaround which is happening amongst the local youth of the Valley. They also expressed their enthusiasm & eagerness for the next mega event on focussed career counselling being planned by the Army on May 7, 2016 which would also include the finals of the Inter School Debate Competition.
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