Frank Anthony Memorial All-India Inter-School Debate Competition 2026

Selection Stage – Category II

Bishop Cotton Boys’ School hosted Selection Stage 2 of Category II of the Frank Anthony Memorial All-India Inter-School Debate Competition 2026 on 27 September 2026, welcoming eight participating schools.

The topic, “Is environmental degradation driven more by human need or human greed?”, challenged the young debaters to explore a critical contemporary issue. Following one hour of preparation, the participants presented their arguments in a four-minute speech, followed by a two-minute rebuttal.

The formal proceedings commenced with a Bible Reading by Mrs Bindhya Kumar and prayer by Mrs Jennita Anandan. Mrs Evelyn Sumana, the Moderator, welcomed the gathering, presented a brief profile of the illustrious Mr Frank Anthony, and introduced the participating teams.

The distinguished panel of judges comprised Mrs Debaleena Mukherjee, accomplished writer; Mr Clifford Gananakan, English language, communication and voice trainer; and Dr John Franco Tharakan, advisor at national and international levels and member of a Karnataka think tank. The judges were introduced by Vice Principal, Mr Dhivyanathan J.

The participants displayed impressive research, logical reasoning, confidence and persuasive communication. The competition was moderated by Mrs Evelyn Sumana, with Mrs Sujin John serving as Time Keeper.

Results:

• Winners: Gopalan National School
• 1st Runner-up: St Vincent Pallotti School
• Best Speaker: Carol Rachel Binu – Gopalan National School
• 1st Runner-up Speaker: Lionel Isaac F – Gopalan National School

The event was a celebration of informed thought, articulate expression and the spirit of healthy debate. The organising team expresses its sincere gratitude to Principal, Dr Alistair R. A. Freese, and Vice Principal, Mr Dhivyanathan J., for their guidance, encouragement and unwavering support in ensuring the successful conduct of the competition.

On Straight On!