UAE project: First debate led by people of determination

UAE project: First debate led by people of determination

The UAE government announced a five-year strategy for people of determination to spotlight the country's longstanding commitment to inclusion in diverse areas, including employment, health, housing as well as opportunities for learning and development. Project Determination “” the world's first debate led by People of Determination “” is an extension of that vision.

It harbours the very essence of the government-led initiative “” to showcase the many special talents and capabilities of people of determination when given a suitable and empowering platform. This exemplary endeavour has been the labour of love for high-school student Shrish Janarthanan. The 17-year-old Dubai College student has been a debate champion in several national and international competitions, including Emirates Debate Championship and Indian Rotary Club Debates. What started as a mere after-school hobby has now led him to dedicate substantial time and efforts, alongside his school commitments, to establish his very own debate programme, DebatePro.

In a short span of time, the initiative has managed to work with schools across the globe, facilitating debate groups for 860 students in 32 schools in over six countries. "When I was first looking to teach peers who came to me for help, I found there was a lack