RIYADH, 11 March 2008 — A team of students who took part in a debate as part of an educational program on Friday convinced the audience that the mobile phone is a new sensible device.
The topic of the debate was “Mobile Phone: a New Sensible Device or a Nuisance?” The team that argued for the title won the debate with a thunderous applause from the audience.
More than 150 Sri Lankan students from several schools in the capital took part in the daylong program conducted by the Sri Lankan Expatriates Society (SLES). The chief guest at the event was A.K.M. Ashraff, chairman of the Board of Management, Sri Lankan International School, while the guest of honor was the school’s principal, M.E.M. Farouk.
The event, held for the second consecutive year, focused on value-based educational training on art and craft, personality development, improving listening skills, etiquettes, neatness and general knowledge.
The junior group attended a series of lectures on time management and improving skills. The group participated in a live quiz competition on stage. The Eagles defeated Phoenix to win the competition.
The winners of the essay competition were also recognized for their communication skills. Jude Ruvinash Pereira secured the first place while Ahmed Mushtaq came second.
Dr. Sameena Mahmood spoke on “Diabetes is a Disease or a Disorder” during a training session for teachers and parents. At the awards program, she made a presentation on how to manage stress, while Dr. Kifaya Ifthikar presented a lecture on dental care.
SLES President Sam Rasdeen said that his society had given top priority to its educational program since it would help the community in the long run. Xavier Arulandoo, project coordinator, said the program generated unprecedented response both from the students and parents. “It showed that there is need for more such programs,” he added.