On November 20, 2024, the Batang Surigaonon Youthniversity, in partnership with JCI Surigao North, officially launched Debate 101: Class 004 at the Livelihood Training and Productivity Center (LTPC). Designed to empower young minds across senior high school, junior high, and college levels, this two-day program focused on developing critical thinking, persuasive communication, and youth leadership through the British Parliamentary debate format. Spearheaded by 2025 LO President Atty. Krystel Grace C. Buniel, with insights from guest speaker Raxiey Adolfo, the program ignited passion, confidence, and readiness in Surigao’s emerging student leaders.
The Challenge
In many parts of Surigao City, there is a noticeable lack of platforms and structured programs dedicated to enhancing the communication and analytical skills of the youth. While students often possess great ideas and potential, they lack the proper guidance, mentorship, and opportunities to express their thoughts effectively. Public speaking remains an intimidating skill for many, and debate—often misunderstood or underutilized in local schools—is rarely introduced as a formal learning tool. As a result, many promising students are unable to maximize their potential in leadership, civic engagement, or professional development simply because they have not been given the stage to speak, be heard, and be challenged intellectually.
The Solution
To bridge this gap, JCI Surigao North partnered with the Batang Surigaonon Youthniversity to deliver Debate 101: Class 004, an intensive and hands-on workshop specifically designed to build the foundational skills of public speaking and structured argumentation. The program emphasized the British Parliamentary format, widely recognized for encouraging quick thinking, respectful discourse, and deep critical analysis. Under the guidance of trained speakers and mentors, participants engaged in interactive sessions that combined lectures, mock debates, feedback loops, and peer collaboration. The program didn’t just teach the mechanics of debate—it fostered confidence, encouraged active listening, promoted respectful disagreement, and allowed students to realize that their voices hold power and purpose in shaping the community.
The Result
The launch of Debate 101 Class 004 was a resounding success, marking a transformative experience for both the participants and organizers. Students who were once hesitant to speak began stepping up, confidently sharing their thoughts in front of peers and mentors. The sessions sparked meaningful conversations, built new friendships, and ignited a sense of empowerment among the youth. Many expressed a newfound interest in debate clubs, student governance, and advocacy. Moreover, the initiative set a precedent for future youth-centered learning spaces in Surigao, reinforcing JCI Surigao North’s commitment to developing young leaders through education, dialogue, and empowerment. As the program continues into Day 2, it stands as a beacon of how structured support and purposeful training can unlock the brilliance already within the youth of Surigao.