Debating for 2009
French essayist and moralist, Joseph Joubert once said: “It is better to debate a question without settling it, than to settle a question without debating it.” Debating is a skill mastered only once you have the ability to look at things from every point of view and to say that you are ‘for’ even when you might be ‘against’. Debating is a skill mastered once it has become second nature to you. Once acquired, this skill opens your mind to better understanding. This year, 2009, has truly been a memorable one for the debating society at V.P. Who could ever forget the familiar, “I greet you all in the wonderful name of debating?”
One of our main highlights was undoubtedly the Grade 8 open evening display. In true Victorian spirit, we pulled it off successfully and proved to be quite entertaining in the process. Every single debating practice was filled with laughter and smiles and every debate was executed with much effort. Debating has given many learners a voice and the confidence that a young person should never have to be without.
This year has granted us memories that are forever and will be treasured. Who could forget the long trips to and from Woodridge, or the debate against Alex when one of the juniors decided to agree with Alex’s argument, not realising what he was doing (hopefully), or our marvelous win against Theodor Herzl. We honestly lived, challenged and dared. Debating has definitely become second nature to all of us.
To our beloved matrics: Sazi, Dilo, Gini and Patience, we wish you well. You taught all of us the art of debating by example. May the fun and determination of debating stay with you.
I would like to thank Mrs. T. Van der Merwe and Mr. Snodgrass for dedicating their afternoons to debating. It is always appreciated.
A huge congratulations to the new board of 2010: President: Leah Moodley, Vice president: Masinga Rune, Secretary: Arian Badier and Head of House: Precious Isaacs. I have no doubt that next season is going to be totally awesome! I look forward to greeting you all in the wonderful and esteemed name of debating.
Leah Moodley
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