Inter-university debate launch

Ishara JAYAWARDANE

The English Literary Association of the Law College of Sri Lanka will organize an All Island Inter University Debating Competition on July 7 and 8, the Hulftsdorp debates, said English Literary Association President Poornima Wijemanne.

"It is a pioneering initiative because at the moment, Sri Lanka does not have an inter university debating circuit," he said.

"Every other country has a very vibrant and active inter university debating circuit. Here, debating is pretty much limited to school level. When it comes to school level it is of a high standard," Wijemanne said.

Wijemanne pointed out that when you compare school level and university level there is a huge gap. The school level is so vibrant with a lot of competition. "With this we hope to create a platform or launching pad and have it annually. This year we are focusing on the local universities. There are university debating contests happening at the international level. We hope by starting this we can contribute to the standard of Sri Lankan university debating. At the moment there are several universities who practice debating. But they are limited, with very little inter connection between these universities," Wijemanne said.

"Essentially Hulftsdorp wants to provide this platform. The competition will be held at the Sri Lanka Law College premises. Adjudication for this competition will be handled by an independent organization called the Debaters Council of Sri Lanka, ensuring there is transparency. The competition will take place from 8am to 8pm.

'All expenses will be covered by English Literary Association. including lodging for two days and transportation," he said.