debate

“The UPNG in years gone by was an environment for debate on national and international issues for that matter as well, and we haven’t had that for quite some time now.

“I am happy to report that SRC that was re-established this year has taken it on board as part of their work going forward. They have organized a couple of debates already and we’ve had the one on COVID-19 issues,” Prof. Griffin said.

The school challenge is facilitated by Emstret Holdings to become a part of the extracurricular activity in all high and secondary schools in the country.

The Emstret School Challenge comprises debate competitions for high and secondary schools, spelling bee designed for students from grades 3 to 8 and poetry slam, an open category for all students.

Nine years running, the academic competitions are intended at developing young Papua New Guineans and enhance students’ research and public speaking skills, literacy levels and networking, including building their confidence.

The motion was triggered by a series of defections from Mr Sogavare's coalition government late last month.

Beginning the debate, opposition MP Derek Sikua outlined to parliament his reasons for tabling the motion.

Dr Sikua said MPs had lost confidence in the prime minister because he wasn't listening to them any more.

He said Mr Sogavare has become suspicious of anyone who differs from his point of view.

The schools were Jubilee, Gerehu, Port Moresby National High, Marianville, Kilakila, De La Salle and Charles Lwanga High School. The debate took place at the Gateway Hotel in Moresby.

World Environment Day is on Friday 5 June celebrated with the theme ‘Seven Billion Dreams. One Planet. Consume with Care’.

The students debated  two main topics for the Government and Opposition.