Kilkenny's young minds debate the future as Carrigeen NS take on Carlow school

Carrigeen NS from Kilkenny will take part in the final of the 2023-24 Concern and Kilkenny Education Centre Primary School Debating Competition, hosted by Kilkenny Education Centre, in collaboration with Concern Worldwide.

The 2023-24 season saw the involvement of over 30 teams from Kilkenny, Carlow, and Tipperary. Schools participating in the competition have reported substantial educational gains and improvements in students’ language skills.

The highlight of the season is the final debate, set to be held on February 23, featuring the motion, ‘The business sector plays the most crucial role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in Ireland’. Carrigeen NS will compete against Newtown Dunleckney NS.

Initiated in the 2015-16 academic year, the Concern Primary Debating Competition has been a joint effort with various Education Centres across Ireland, including Kilkenny Education Centre, to nurture debating skills and global consciousness in primary school students. Targeting the senior classes - fourth, fifth, and sixth - the competition employs a knock-out format that has seen enthusiastic participation and culminates in the crowning of a local champion.

The topics for debate were both engaging and challenging, covering motions such as the abolition of homework, plastic pollution in oceans, the role of electric cars in reducing emissions, and the unifying power of sports.

The highlight of this season is the final debate, set to be held on 23 February, featuring the motion, 'The business sector plays the most crucial role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in Ireland'.

“Now in its eleventh year, the Concern Primary Debating Competition underscores the importance of cultivating speaking and critical thinking skills in children aged 10-12," said John O’Sullivan, Director of Kilkenny Education Centre.

"By delving into serious global issues, students have not only honed their debating skills but also expanded their understanding of worldwide challenges. We are immensely grateful to our organisers, adjudicators, and all participants for their unwavering commitment and enthusiasm. This event plays a vital role in preparing young individuals for future societal and environmental challenges.”

Special thanks are extended to Eilís Costelloe, retired principal of Lisdowney National School, for her invaluable support in coordinating the competition in the region. The centre also acknowledges the contributions of adjudicators, participating schools, teachers, parents/guardians, students, and Concern Worldwide, whose collective efforts have made this event a resounding success.

For more information, please contact the Kilkenny Education Centre.