Let the arguments begin.
The first ever Northern Academic Debate Championship is being held this weekend at UNBC and organizers are rapping the gavel for any high school challenger. There is a place at the podium for anyone looking for a hearty discussion on engaging topics.
"This is not a competition for schools to enter teams in, it is for individual people," said Sufey Chen, President of the UNBC Debate Society. "Kids will be signing up individually and they will be partnered up by the organizers. No one enters as a team. Partners are switched every round. It's called Magic Wand Style."
It runs Friday through Sunday, with four impromptu British Parliamentary debate rounds, plus the finals and a public speech competition.
"Unfortunately we cannot release the resolutions yet, they are impromptu, so they are kept secret until 30 minutes before each debate round," she said. "This is open to the public though, so if people want to watch they are welcome to come. The finals would probably be the best bet."
For those participants unfamiliar with the process, there will be free orientation provided. Food is also provided, plus other awards and benefits for taking part.
"It is an incredible opportunity to develop debate and public speaking skills," Chen said. "Communication is crucial to future success, and you will expand your network of friends."
The competition promises individualized attention and direct critiques, said Chen, which will help build up everyone's knowledge base, speaking confidence, and understanding of critical issues. Although it is framed as a competition, she said the real goal is skill-building and fun.
For schedules and more information visit unbcdebate.com, where you can register online.
Contact Chen at [email protected] or 250-961-9788; or James Alexander at [email protected].
