25/09/2026
Hoerner College hosted the Semi-Final, Stage 3 of the Frank Anthony All India Inter-School Debate Competition 2026, under the aegis of the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE), on Friday, 25 September 2026. The prestigious event brought together talented young debaters from schools across North India, providing them with a platform to showcase their eloquence, critical thinking, knowledge and debating skills.
The debate was chaired by Dr. Surabhi Modi Sahai, while the distinguished panel of judges comprised Mrs. Noor Khan, Mr. Chandra Prakash and Mrs. Ruth Chakraverty. As appointed by the Council, Mrs. Romilla Bunny, Senior English Teacher, La Martiniere Girls College Lucknow, served as the Observer for the competition and oversaw the proceedings in accordance with the prescribed rules and guidelines.
The competition witnessed an impressive display of confidence, clarity of thought, articulation and effective argumentation as participants engaged in a stimulating exchange of ideas. The high standard of debate reflected the spirit of the Frank Anthony Debate, which encourages students to develop their reasoning abilities, express their views with conviction and engage constructively with diverse perspectives.
Digantar Gulati of Dr. Virendra Swaroop Education Centre, Kanpur, was adjudged the Best Speaker of the competition, delivering a noteworthy performance marked by clarity, confidence and persuasive argumentation.
Akshar Agarwal, also from Dr. Virendra Swaroop Education Centre, Kanpur, secured the First Runner-Up position, further adding to the school’s strong showing at the competition. Inaya Rehman Siddiqui of St. Fidelis College, Aliganj, Lucknow, was declared the Second Runner-Up, earning recognition for her commendable performance in the debate.
The Winning Team title was awarded to Dr. Virendra Swaroop Education Centre, Kanpur. The school’s achievement was particularly significant as it not only secured the team championship but also produced the Best Speaker and First Runner-Up of the competition.
Hoerner College was honoured to host this prestigious stage of the competition and provide a meaningful platform for students to engage in constructive dialogue, sharpen their reasoning abilities and celebrate the power of the spoken word.
