Apeejay School, Model Town students take global stage in debate with Sri Lankan peers

Recently, Apeejay School, Model Town, Jalandhar, provided students of Classes XI and XII with an enriching opportunity to participate in an international debate and discussion with students from ACT Academy, Sri Lanka. The interaction was organised as part of the British Council’s Recognition of International Dimension in Schools (RIDS) initiative, promoting meaningful global connections and encouraging students to develop an international outlook.

The session, titled Flight Beyond Frontiers-In Collaboration with Sri Lanka, centred around the thought-provoking theme Global Voices Forum-Borders vs Shared Skies. The topic encouraged students to examine the significance of geographical boundaries while reflecting on the possibilities of global cooperation, shared responsibilities, and interconnectedness.

Students from both schools participated enthusiastically, presenting well-researched arguments both for and against the motion. They demonstrated strong preparation and confidence while articulating their perspectives on the opportunities and challenges associated with a globally connected world. The debate was followed by engaging rebuttals, allowing participants to respond to contrasting viewpoints and further develop their arguments.

The interaction provided students with a valuable platform to strengthen essential 21st-century skills, including critical thinking, effective communication, research, articulation, and respectful dialogue. Their thoughtful contributions reflected their ability to engage with complex global issues while appreciating perspectives shaped by different cultural and social contexts.

Beyond the formal debate, the session served as an avenue for meaningful cultural exchange between the young participants from India and Sri Lanka. Interacting with their international peers enabled students to appreciate similarities and differences, broaden their perspectives, and understand the importance of mutual respect in an increasingly interconnected world.

The initiative also reinforced the significance of international collaboration in education, allowing students to move beyond conventional classroom learning and engage with real-world issues through a global lens. Such interactions nurture curiosity, confidence, empathy, and an appreciation for diverse viewpoints.

The international debate concluded on an inspiring note, leaving students with a deeper understanding of the value of dialogue and collaboration. The initiative aptly captured the spirit of connecting minds, crossing borders, and building a global future, empowering young learners to become informed and responsible global citizens.