BASSETERRE, St. Kitts -- THE Federation is set to host the 2024 Leeward Islands Debating Competition (LIDC), slated to unfold at the Royal St. Kitts Hotel Conference Room in Frigate Bay, from February 29th to March 4th, 2024.
In its 52nd edition, the premier debating competition in the subregion will convene six territories—Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Montserrat, Nevis, St. Maarten, and St. Kitts—to showcase the eloquence and intellectual acumen of their youth.
Approximately 170 students, aged 15 to 21, are anticipated to participate in the LIDC, representing a diverse array of perspectives and talents. Among the debaters from St. Kitts are Aquanje Robinson, Kaylah Penny, Kayla Butler, Jahzara Greene, Daneisy Rawlins, and Mikaelah Richardson.
The LIDC offers a number of advantages for young debaters. Engaging in spirited exchanges of ideas not only refines their debating prowess but also broadens their cultural vistas.
The LIDC serves as a catalyst for personal growth and development, spotlighting the intellectual capacities of the youth and underscoring the significance of fostering a culture of critical thinking and civil discourse within our societies. Participants emerge from the crucible of competition imbued with heightened self-assurance, having tested their mettle in a challenging and intellectually stimulating milieu. Through rigorous research, logical analysis, and persuasive rhetoric, they refine indispensable skills indispensable for their academic and professional trajectories.
Nevis will square off against Montserrat on the moot "Higher education institutions should ban the use of Artificial Intelligence in academic discourse," while Anguilla and Antigua will lock horns in debate #2 at 1:00 pm, deliberating on the moot "Social media is detrimental to the Caribbean region's cultural identity."
On Saturday, March 2nd, at 6:00 pm, St. Maarten will cross swords with the victor of debate #1, tackling the moot "The Caribbean region is adequately prepared to respond to future pandemics and crises" in debate #3. Subsequently, at 8:00 pm, St. Kitts will contend with the triumphant debater of debate #2, engaging in debate #4 with the moot "Caribbean nations have sufficiently improved their education systems to prepare youth for 21st-century challenges."
The climactic showdown on Sunday, March 3rd, at 5:00 pm, will witness the champions of debate #3 and debate #4 vying for the prestigious title of LIDC champion. They will spar over the moot "The feminist movement has become focused on attacking men rather than promoting the equality of women."
As the host island, St. Kitts pledges to orchestrate a memorable and enriching experience for all stakeholders. From stimulating debate topics to immersive cultural escapades, participants can anticipate a comprehensive program that nurtures personal and intellectual growth. The public is cordially invited to attend the 52nd Annual Leeward Islands Debating Competition and witness firsthand the talent and fervor of the young debaters.
