Students win spots in world debate champs

By MICHAEL LAI
Five students will be representing Papua New Guinea at the World School Debate championship in Croatia in July, according to Institute of Business Studies facilitator Vani Nades.
Nades said the participants – Sabina Buskens, Michael Sareveelahr, Christopher Nakue, Vibhu Guru and John Kawagl – were preparing for the debate between teams from 70 countries worldwide.
Sabina Buskens, an 18-year-old participant and a Kopkop College student, said debate was about speaking intellectually.
Buskens, who is studying business economics at Kopkop, will lead the PNG team.
She said debate was about speaking and speaking could change a person’s mind, life and cause of actions.
“Speaking is not about English but it is about how knowable a person and how that person can
present through speaking,” she said.
Michael Sareveelahr, of Gerehu Secondary School, said
“where there is a will there is a way”.
“It all depends on our mind,” he said. “We will present our mind in the world arena.
“This is an opportunity to participate, experience and learn, and we will do with all our heart.”
Christopher Nakue, of Don Bosco Technical Secondary, said: “I grab this opportunity to represent my country with my personal commitment and sacrifice.”
Port Moreesby International School students Vibhu Guru said: “I am nervous about what the world stage is going to present us with.
“But with courage from coaching and mentoring will help us do really well up there.”
The team is raising funds for the trip.