The Debate and Elocution Club of Loyola School successfully organized an enriching workshop on April 17, 2026, aimed at enhancing students’ public speaking and critical thinking skills.

The session was graced by the presence of the Principal, Fr. Vinod Fernandes SJ, and the Vice Principal, Mrs. Jayanthi Sheshadri, along with esteemed resource persons, Mr. Shankar Ramalingam and Ms. Natasha Aziz from the Kolkata debating circuit.

The workshop commenced with a formal introduction of the speakers. Mr. Shankar Ramalingam, an alumnus of St. Xavier’s School and College, Kolkata, is an accomplished Chartered and Cost Accountant. He is actively associated with the Jesuit Alumni Associations of India and currently serves as the Secretary of the North Zone. A prominent figure in debating and quizzing circles, he is also a Trustee of the well-known Calcutta Debating Circle.

Ms. Natasha Aziz, an advocate practicing at the Calcutta High Court, is a passionate debating enthusiast. She serves as the Chief Coordinator of the Calcutta Debating Circle. Currently, she is associated with The Newtown School, Kolkata, and Modern High School International, Kolkata, as a public speaking facilitator.

Approximately 32 students from Classes IX to XII, selected for their interest and aptitude in debating and elocution, participated in the workshop.

The resource persons shared valuable insights into the art of effective debating. Key focus areas included techniques for constructing strong arguments and substantiations, the importance of structured rebuttals, and the role of confident body language in impactful communication. The interactive nature of the session allowed students to engage actively and refine their speaking abilities.

An impromptu debate was organised on the topic: Parents should be allowed access to the social media of children till they are 16.

The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Fr. Vinod Fernandes, who expressed gratitude to the resource persons for their invaluable guidance and to all participants for their enthusiastic involvement.

The event proved to be highly beneficial, equipping students with practical skills and confidence to excel in the fields of debate and public speaking.