The third Edition of the New Media Conference School Debate took place on November 17, 2023, at Chalcedony School in Goodwill Estate, Abijo, captivating the interest of over 250 people, including media enthusiasts, judges, students, and teachers.
The Convener of the New Media Conference, Oluwatosin Ajibade, delivered the welcome speech, addressing the profound impact of Artificial Intelligence on human existence. She stated, “Artificial Intelligence will undoubtedly transform various aspects of our lives. However, the fear of AI replacing humans should not overshadow its potential to enhance our capabilities, solve complex problems, and improve our quality of life.” The host, Isabella Adedeji, founder of Yellow Tamarind production, introduced the judges and debaters.
Elsie Godwin, Founder of Mind-Mastik and Co-founder of Cashwise Finance informed the audience about the proper way to use Social Media. She posed a thought-provoking question, “When you look back in the next five years, would you be proud of the content you have put out?” This question prompted the audience to reflect on the long-term impact of their online presence.
The school debate on the topic “AI will replace humans” brought together two prominent schools, Chalcedony School and Debiruss School, for a stimulating intellectual exchange. Chalcedony School, the host, opposed the motion, while Debiruss School supported it. The debate featured three debaters from each school: Osaruese Ikponmwoba, Alvina Oghenekparobo, and Akpan Abasi-Itoro representing Chalcedony School and Abigail Fajumo, Mercy Onyearugha, and Aanuoluwa Simeon representing Debiruss School.
The event featured an engaging exchange of ideas, with debaters presenting persuasive arguments for and against the motion. Three distinguished judges moderated the debate: Thelma Ibeh, Founder of Faslearn; Adekunle Owolabi, Country Manager at Nest Hogins; and Oluwaseun Shokeye, Growth Manager at Edusko Africa.
After careful evaluation, Thelma Ibeh addressed the audience, acknowledging the outstanding efforts of all participants. She announced the winner of the debate, with Debiruss School clinching victory with an impressive score of 74.89 points. Chalcedony School displayed exceptional debating skills and secured a close second position with a score of 70.67 points.
The winners from Debiruss School received a golden trophy, three medals, a 100,000 naira literacy course sponsorship, STEM kits for schools, cash prizes, certificates of participation, and a day visit to Microsoft Nigeria Headquarters in Ikoyi, Lagos. Medals and certificates of participation were also awarded to debaters from Chalcedony School.
The 2023 New Media Conference School debate was a collaborative effort with Microsoft Nigeria, Edusko Africa, Nest Hogins, and FasLearn.
