Mhafuza Islam
Debate is more than just a platform for exchanging opinions—it is a dynamic tool that cultivates essential critical thinking skills. By engaging in structured argumentation, participants learn to analyze information, evaluate diverse perspectives, and construct well-reasoned arguments. This process not only sharpens intellectual abilities but also encourages open-mindedness and effective communication. Fostering critical thinking through debate empowers individuals to navigate complex issues thoughtfully and confidently in both academic settings and everyday life.
A comprehensive debate workshop was organized by the Puthia Upazila administration on Tuesday morning, aimed at fostering critical thinking and oratory skills among secondary-level students. The event took place at 9:00 AM with enthusiastic participation from 48 students and 12 teachers representing 12 local schools.
The workshop was inaugurated with great enthusiasm in the presence of distinguished guests, including AKM Nur Hossain Nirjhar, the Upazila Executive Officer of Puthia, who graced the event as the chief guest. Upazila Education Officer Mokhlesur Rahman and Secondary Education Supervisor Ashraful Islam were also in attendance, highlighting the administration’s commitment to educational development.
The participants comprised students from a diverse range of institutions, such as Batalidaha Girls’ High School, Jhalmalia High School, Jamira High School, Puthia Girls’ High School, Dhopapara High School, Puthia Paresh Narayan Government High School, Syed Karam Ali Darus Sunnat Fazil (Degree) Madrasa, Shaheed Nader Ali Girls’ School and College, Dhopapara Mohanpur Alim Madrasa, Dhokrakul High School, Panchamaria Bi-Mukhi High School, and Baneshwar High School.
The workshop featured expert trainers who brought their specialized knowledge to the participants. Zakirul Islam, from the Law and Human Rights Department at Barendra University, and Arrafe Siraji Antar, an Arabic Department academic and Planning Affairs Secretary of the RU Group of Liberal Debaters at Rajshahi University, led the training sessions. Their expertise helped students enhance their debating skills and understand the nuances of argumentation and public speaking.
Mehedi Hasan Babu served as the workshop director, ensuring smooth coordination and effective delivery throughout the event. The interactive sessions included practical exercises, group debates, and feedback segments designed to boost confidence and sharpen the participants’ abilities.
The event concluded with a promise to continue such initiatives aimed at empowering young minds through education and debate. The Upazila administration expressed hope that this workshop would inspire students to actively engage in intellectual discussions and develop leadership qualities for future challenges.
