Young debaters from Lucknow and Kanpur engage with questions of technology, ethics, and human responsibility
Lucknow: Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, Shaheed Path, Lucknow, hosted the 9th Dr. Rajaram Jaipuria Memorial Inter-School Debate, bringing together young debaters from leading schools across Lucknow and Kanpur for an engaging exchange of ideas on one of the defining questions of the technology age.
The annual debate, held in memory of the school’s founder, Late Dr. Rajaram Jaipuria, commenced with an invocation to the Almighty, followed by a creatively scripted curtain-raiser that explored the opportunities and challenges presented by technological advancement. The presentation introduced the proposition: “Technological progress has surpassed humanity’s ability to use it ethically.”
Moderator Jyoti Tiwari formally set the proceedings in motion and outlined the rules of the competition. Participating students engaged in a spirited and intellectually rigorous exchange, presenting arguments, challenging opposing viewpoints, and responding to incisive questions. The discussion examined contemporary concerns including drone warfare, genetic modification, and ethical accountability in an era of rapid technological advancement.
The judging panel comprised Mrs. Poonam Kochitty, Principal, Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, Shaheed Path, Lucknow, Headmistress Ms. Shilpi Kumar, and Ms. Deepa Shukla. The competition provided students with an opportunity to demonstrate command over the subject and engage respectfully with differing perspectives.
Speaking on the significance of the event, Mrs. Poonam Kochitty, Principal, Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, Shaheed Path, Lucknow, said:
“The Dr. Rajaram Jaipuria Memorial Debate reflects our belief that education must prepare young people not only to understand a changing world, but also to question it thoughtfully and shape it responsibly. In an age where technological capability is advancing at extraordinary speed, the ability to pause, examine consequences, and make ethical choices is equally important. The confidence and depth with which our young debaters engaged with these questions is a strong reminder of the importance of nurturing both intellect and character.”
The programme concluded with observations and feedback from the judges, followed by a cultural presentation featuring a performance of “We Are the World” by the school choir and a dance to the anthem “Dai Dai.”
Virat Mishra of Gurukul Academy was adjudged Best Speaker for the Motion, while Shambhavi Pathak of Swaraj India Public School, Kanpur, was named Best Speaker Against the Motion. Swaraj India Public School, Kanpur, won the Best Team award.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Vice Principal Mr. Pankaj Rathore congratulated and motivated all the participants. Drawing a rich historical parallel to ancient tradition, he referenced the era of the Ramayana and classical philosophical discourses involving figures like Sita and Gargi. He highlighted how intellectual inquiry and public discourse have been deeply rooted in Indian culture since ancient times, explaining how debate should be conducted with composure, dignity, and deep mutual respect. He shared valuable insights with the students, encouraging them to maintain this poise and pursuit of truth through reasoned dialogue.
The 9th Dr. Rajaram Jaipuria Memorial Debate reaffirmed Seth Anandram Jaipuria School’s commitment to developing critical thinkers, confident communicators, and ethically conscious young citizens, continuing the intellectual legacy of its founder, Late Dr. Rajaram Jaipuria.
Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, Shaheed Path, Lucknow, is a leading educational institution committed to academic excellence, innovation, and holistic student development. The school has been shortlisted among the Top 10 schools globally in the Supporting Healthy Lives category of the World’s Best School Prizes 2026, founded by T4 Education, for its student-led Project Alchemy initiative. Recognized as a case study by the UN SDSN Global Schools Program and a member of the Round Square network, the school emphasizes leadership, service, environmental awareness, and holistic development.
Established in 1945, Seth Anandram Jaipuria Group of Educational Institutions has a legacy spanning more than eight decades in Indian education. The Group operates across K–12 education, preschools, management education, and teacher development, focusing on values-based learning, innovation, and preparing future-ready learners.
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