The English Association and Debating Union of Ness Wadia College of Commerce, Pune, successfully organized the 3rd Edition of the Golden Jubilee Trophy Debate Competition on 18 January 2025. The intercollegiate competition was marked by enthusiastic participation and a vibrant exchange of ideas.

The programme began with the lighting of the lamp and unveiling of trophies, symbolizing the spirit of knowledge and healthy competition. Dr. Ravindra Mhasade, Professor & Head, Department of English, delivered the welcome address, followed by introductory remarks from Principal Dr. Vrishali Randhir. Vice Principal Dr. Prakash Chaudhary introduced the esteemed panel of judges: Dr. Ashok Thorat, Founder Director, Institute of Advanced Studies in English, Aundh, Pune; Dr. Chandrakant Rawal, Former Principal, Brihan Maharashtra College of Commerce, Pune; and Dr. Shamsuddin Tamboli, President, Reformist Movement Muslim Satyashodhak Mandal. The judges were felicitated in recognition of their contributions.

The debate topics were highly relevant and contemporary, and included:

1. Will artificial intelligence reduce or increase jobs?

2. National Education Policy 2020: Is it aligned with India’s future needs?

3. Should the private sector be mandated to implement reservation policies?

4. Is Indian democracy in danger?

5. Are social media platforms causing ‘brain rot’ in youth?

Over 27 teams from reputed colleges across Pune participated in this prestigious event. The First Prize was shared by Ness Wadia College of Commerce, Pune, and St. Mira’s College for Girls, Pune, due to a tie. The Ness Wadia team comprised Ms. Prachi Lanjewar and Ms. Saloni Sejpal, while the St. Mira’s team included Ms. Sravani Bobade and Ms. Lisa Khanapur.

The Runner-up Prize was won by Mr. Siddhant Thomas and Mr. Ashuthosh Singh of Nowrosjee Wadia College of Arts & Science, Pune. Mr. Siddhant Thomas also won the Best Speaker Prize. The First Consolation Prize went to Mr. Siddhant Sahu and Mr. Nayan Mahajan of MIT Academy of Engineering, Pune. The Second Consolation Prize was awarded to Mr. Shasmim Tamboli and Mr. Kanak Wasankar of Yashwantrao Chavan Law College, Pune.

The Prize Distribution Ceremony celebrated the winners’ achievements. Ms. Shivanjali Bade announced the results, and Mr. Devanshu Bhavsar, Secretary of the English Association, proposed the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, and organizers.

The event concluded on a high note, fostering a culture of critical thinking, eloquence, and intellectual engagement among students.

Dr. Ravindra Mhasade
Teacher-in-charge