Debating South Africa

The art of debate is thus one of the great underpinnings of a democracy. The marshalling and testing of argument and counter-argument through formal debate is the litmus test of the soundness of everything from a legislative amendment in parliament to some of the great ethical issues of the day. It also means to find not merely the centre of gravity of opinion, but also the truth of the matter. If an argument does not stand in debate, it does not stand; equally the most effective way of changing minds - one of the hardest tasks in human intercourse - is to show that another argument is superior. It is impossible to understand British and indeed the wider English-speaking culture without comprehending the centrality of debate as part of its social cement

The ability to analyse and communicate information rapidly, critically and impartially is crucial to success in tertiary education and in society. Debating provides a mechanism to teach valuable skills that school syllabi have traditionally struggled to impart. Debating stimulates and extends thinking beyond the confines of the classroom.

At a time when there is much talk and excitement about the potential and future of this country, it is very easy to get caught up in discussions about infrastructure and the economy and to forget how critical the development of human capital will be for the advancement of South Africa. There are 3 major areas in which the advancement of competitive debating has the potential to propel the development of human capital in South Africa.

Debating South Africa, views Wellness and Life Skills Training as a critical ingredient to the solution of numerous social ills.