Strengthening Debate and Community Through Friendly Exchange

The SJI Debate Society recently hosted the CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh) Debate Team for a friendly sparring session, which proved to be both engaging and enriching for participants and audience alike.

Across two rounds, six Josephian debaters faced off with six debaters from CHIJ on a range of thought-provoking motions, including the sustainable development of data centres and China’s interests in the Middle East. Each round was followed by insightful feedback from CHIJ’s coach, Mr Edwin Tham, an SJI alumnus, whose perspectives added depth to the learning experience.

Representing SJI were Jason Yeung (ML615), Francesca Wong (MN620), Gideon Tan (ML611), Annabel Yap (FN505), Bonifacio Gyula (ML512) and Fan Enyi (ML511).

Such opportunities are invaluable in nurturing our students’ passion for debate while fostering camaraderie, mutual respect and a broader sense of community beyond the school. It was also heartening to witness strong student leadership, with Jedidiah and the Executive Committee organising the event with care and purpose.

These authentic learning experiences continue to leave a lasting impact, shaping our Josephians into confident, thoughtful, and engaged communicators