Port Kaituma Secondary emerged victorious in the JOF Haynes Memorial Inter-Secondary Schools debating competition held at the Diamond Secondary School auditorium.
According to a Government Information agency (GINA) press release the contest was held as part of observances for Education Month. The contestants were from the Diamond Secondary in Region Four and Port Kaituma Secondary in Region One.
In her opening address Distance Chief Executive Officer (development), Bibi Ally said that the annual debating competition is used to celebrate the oratorical expertise of the late JOF Haynes, who was identified as the most brilliant and eminent lawyer of his generation.
The schools debated the moot point: ‘Homework is essential for students’ success.’ Diamond Secondary presented the proposition and Port Kaituma Secondary the opposition.
GINA said the winners had a total of 252 while Diamond Secondary scored 230. Shetal Ragnauth of Diamond Secondary was the best debater while Kelly Etwaroo of Port Kaituma Secondary was adjudged best speaker during the presentation.
In announcing the winners Chief Judge Lurine Meertins said that she was pleased with the debate as it was well-researched. In addition, Head of the Law Department at the University of Guyana, Professor Calvin Eversley, said the debate is an art of advocacy and that he was impressed by the students’ performance. He also commended their conduct.
Port Kaituma Secondary now joins past debating champions including, in 2007, Bishops’ High, 2008 Aurora Secondary, Region Two and Anna Regina Secondary, Region Two in 2009.
