Lucknow: La Martiniere Girls’ College on May 16 unveiled the ninth edition of the Farida Abraham Memorial Debate and Quiz (FAMDQ) 2026, bringing together participants from 28 prestigious schools across the country for an intellectually vibrant and culturally engaging event.
Among the outstation schools participating this year are Wynberg Allen School, Sherwood College, Welham Girls’ School and Bishop Cotton School. They were joined by leading local institutions including Seth M.R. Jaipuria School, La Martiniere College, St Agnes’ Loreto Day School and St. Francis’ College.
The opening ceremony commenced with a flag ceremony paying homage to all participating schools. Principal A. Dass, along with department heads Dr P. Singh, Head of the GK Club ‘Quest’, and Mrs R. Bunny, Head of the college debating club ‘Oratio’, lit the ceremonial lamp symbolising the invocation of light and knowledge.
Addressing the gathering, Mrs Dass encouraged students to dream big and nurture the spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect. She formally declared FAMDQ 2026 open by announcing the debate motion: “This House Believes that public figures should be judged by the standards of their time not ours.”

The day witnessed passionate exchanges and thought-provoking arguments as participants from both sides presented their perspectives on the motion with confidence and clarity. Alongside the debate, the written quiz challenged students to showcase their knowledge, analytical thinking and curiosity.
As the evening unfolded, participants came together for a cultural programme featuring music and classical dance performances. The relaxed and celebratory atmosphere fostered friendship and interaction among students from different schools.
The combination of intense intellectual competition and vibrant cultural celebration reflected the dynamic spirit of FAMDQ 2026, with participants now looking forward to the remaining two days of the event.

