Debate Competition Held at Holy Spirit Institute of Theology

A lively and intellectually engaging debate competition was held this morning at the auditorium of the Holy Spirit Institute of Theology, bringing together students from the philosophy and theology departments. The program was organized in two sessions and created a vibrant atmosphere of academic discussion, critical thinking, and respectful dialogue among the participants.

First Session: Philosophy Students’ Debate

The first session of the debate competition featured the philosophy students. The theme for this debate was “Absolute Truth is Impossible.” The session was moderated by Rev. Fr. John Chinnapan Srijon, SJ, who guided the debate with fairness and clarity.

The participants presented thoughtful arguments both supporting and opposing the motion. Their presentations reflected careful preparation and philosophical reasoning, making the discussion lively and intellectually stimulating. The debaters demonstrated their ability to analyze ideas, defend their positions, and respond to opposing arguments with confidence.

The panel of judges for this session consisted of Rev. Fr. Enbert Komol Khan, Rev. Fr. Milton Joseph Rozario, and Rev. Bro. Satya Rechard Purification. They attentively evaluated the debate, considering the clarity of arguments, logical reasoning, and the overall performance of the participants.

After careful assessment, the judges announced that the opposition to the motion had successfully defended their position and won the first debate competition. Their arguments effectively challenged the claim that absolute truth is impossible and impressed the judges with their clarity and strength.

After the first session concluded, the participants and attendees proceeded to the refectory for a short tiffin break.

Second Session: Theology Students’ Debate

Following the break, everyone gathered again in the auditorium to enjoy the second session of the debate competition, where the theology students took part. The theme of this debate was “Human dignity is rooted only in the image of God.”

The session was moderated by Rev. Fr. Simon Patrick Gomes, who guided the discussion in an organized and engaging manner. The theology students presented their arguments with theological insight and thoughtful reflection, drawing on their understanding of faith, human dignity, and moral responsibility. The exchange of ideas between the two sides made the debate meaningful and enriching for everyone present.

The judges for this session were Rev. Fr. Milton Joseph Rozario, Rev. Fr. Tushar Jomes Gomes, and Res. Sister Mita Das. They carefully observed the arguments and evaluated the speakers based on clarity, theological depth, and presentation.

At the end of the debate, the judges declared that the party supporting the motion had won the competition. Their arguments clearly emphasized the theological foundation of human dignity in the belief that every human person is created in the image of God.

With the completion of the second debate, the half-day program came to a joyful close. The participants, judges, and members of the seminary community then gathered together to enjoy a delicious lunch, sharing fellowship after a morning filled with thoughtful discussion and academic exchange.