The 2023 “Argumentation and Debate Workshop” for 8th,9th and 10th Standard Girls in India was a unique initiative of VIIS in collaboration with Cornell speech and debate society, ILR International Programs, Cornell University, USA. The five-day workshop on the art and craft of argumentation and debate was held at VIIS-SVYM Mysuru from 29th July to 06th August 2023. The workshop was guided by Ms. Donna Ramil, Associate Director , International programs ILR school Cornell University and led by Estefania Palacios, the Director of Outreach for the Cornell Speech and Debate Program.
         46 high school girls, One passionate teacher, 10 ILR Students,One Teaching Assistants (TAs) from Cornell University’s ILR School participating in the ILR Global Service Learning Program 5 days of debate training 20 different debate teams, 5 girls traveling to Ithaca, NY, USA to attend Cornell's International Summer Debate Camp and 15+Indian high schools represented at the workshop were the highlights.
         The workshop, while allowing the girls to learn the craft and techniques of argumentation and debate, also exposed them to many new ideas and issues that are important in today's society. The girls debated topics ranging from the standards in the media today, social media, reproductive health, education, women in politics and government, and many more!