Secondary schoolchildren from around the world gathered at the TSL 2018 International Schools Debates in Beau Vallon, Seychelles on 4th July 2018 to debate whether UN Sustainable Development Goal #14 (on Oceans) is achievable.

Following a day of dynamic presentations and discussions across four groups – two debating for the motion and two against – the Best Group debating awards went to the following team members:

• Mary Iskandarian (Lebanon)
• Darren Tan (Malaysia)
• Ellery Fock-Yune (Seychelles)
• Izuchukwu Egbuku (Nigeria)
• Jade Akkawi (Lebanon)
• Karina Anastasya Putri (Indonesia)
• Katrina Jreidini (Lebanon)
• Natalie Ashkar (Lebanon)
• Ryna Azemia (Seychelles) and
• Tanisha Elizabeth (Seychelles)

The Best Individual debating award went to Natalie Ashkar (Lebanon).

Individual Judges’ Commendations were awarded to:

• Jack Tetley (New Zealand)
• Michel Sadek (Lebanon) and
• Stana Mousbe (Seychelles)

In addition, four  Student Debate Ambassadors were nominated to represent each of the four groups at a panel discussion with marine experts at the Children’s Oceans Conference on 5th July:

• Pranav Nair (India)
• Abiah Abraham (Nigeria)
• Abiamamela Obuoha (Nigeria) and
• Alicia Iskandarian (Lebanon)

See the full list of this year’s Schools Debate Winners.