Sazolie College, Jotsoma, organised its 13th Intercollegiate Debate Competition on September 21, on the topic, “Smartphones are making us smarter”. A press release from the Intercollegiate Debate Committee convenor, Toshinaro Imchen stated that the critic for the event was Likok Sangtam, documentary film maker and host of the popular talk show called, “The LK Show.”
Those speaking for the motion brought up how smartphones had made bill payments, shopping, accessing health advice etc. extremely easy. With all this instant information, people do not even need formal training to develop skills, they said. Also smartphones have brought people from different cultures together and “life is in our pocket” they asserted.
The opposition came back with the argument about how excessive smartphone use had created health hazards like insomnia, hallucinations, abnormal obsessions and bizarre behaviour. They also opined that it had reduced creativity and IQ, and their excessive use may even foster anti-social behaviour. While they are connecting people, many had lost their ability to connect personally in the real world, they said.
After the debate, the critic and the judges gave feedback and tips to the students and also interjected their opinions on the topic.
Participants speaking against the motion acquired 1852 points and won the debate, while the other team earned 1789 points. The first position was bagged by Khyochamo Yanthan of Tetso College, while Viketono Jacika of Sazolie College and Neipukhrienuo Pienyü of Baptist College tied for the second position. Tokhuo Humtsoe of Eastern College got the third position. The winners were awarded rupees ten thousand, seven thousand five hundred, and five thousand respectively. The five consolation prizes were bagged by Bujei Konyak of Kohima College, Imtitula of Model Christian College, Veihrunu William Ramai of St. Joseph’s College, S. L. Mania of Shalom Bible Seminary and Maryangla Kichu of Kohima Science College. Jonna Naroibam, dean of students, was the moderator for the debate and the judges were, Arep Tzüdir, youth pastor, Kohima Ao Baptist Church, Theja Meru, entrepreneur and musician and, Tongpang L. Jamir, advocate. Students from 20 different colleges in Nagaland participated in the event.
The program was chaired by Medosano Mary, assistant professor. The invocation prayer was said by Nzanthung Kikon, chaplain, and Dr. Kangzangding Thou, principal, Sazolie College, gave the welcome address. Sazolie College Choir presented a rendition of Michael Jackson’s song “Man in the Mirror” and the vote of thanks was proposed by Toshinaro Imchen, assistant professor and convenor of the Intercollegiate debate committee.