Students’ Reflections on the Chairman’s Cup — April 2014 (Grades 7 and 8)

Competition is an indispensable part of life where only the strongest can survive. When you actually compete against yourself, you inch forward toward success. This is the reason why Oakridge has a debate competition called the Chairman’s Cup which is helpful at identifying and showcasing the hidden talents of the students.

Chairman’s Cup is a Round Robin debate where two students from each class are selected to share and express their opinions on a chosen topic. The students take a stand for and against the topic and compete with the other sections of Grade 7. 

One of the deepest fears of all individuals is public speaking. The Chairman’s Cup has helped transform our abilities and stand up to an audience bravely and speak on the chosen topic. This debate competition has boosted our self-confidence and helped us identify our potential. 

The Chairman’s Cup has been an enriching experience for all of us. I would like to express my gratitude on behalf of all the students to the teachers who made it possible for us to find our niche and improve our communication skills.

Rohini Ganguli – Grade 7G

The Chairman’s Cup is an excellent platform for the students to showcase their public speaking skills. Grade 8 has taken to the debate with great gusto and there is a keen competition amongst the classes in winning the debate.

The debate encourages students to express their opinions fearlessly in front of their peers and also accept criticism from the judges. Public speaking is not every student’s forte — the Chairman’s Cup encourages everyone to overcome the fear of public speaking.

Our self-confidence has grown by leaps and bounds and we look forward to more such debates. Students talk for and against the topic and are open to new thoughts and ideas. Many thanks to the teachers and judges who have helped make us realise our potential. 

Avani Valluripalli – Grade 8G