Australian High Commissioner Andrew Byrne said he was excited to hear young people’s perspectives on this year’s debate theme, climate change.
"Climate change is a complex issue facing every country and requires a strategic, creative and flexible response. Australia has committed around SB$5.8 billion to building climate change resilience and reducing emissions in developing countries over the next five years," said the High Commissioner.
"The Solomon Islands Government played a leading role in the global climate change negotiations last year in Paris, and it is important that youth are able to contribute to the discussion."
"I am looking forward to a robust and enlightening debate that helps these students to develop their confidence in public speaking and think critically about a difficult policy matter for their country and the global community."
Students will need to successfully defend their arguments in front of a crowd of politicians, government officials, business representatives and members of the public to take out the winning trophy.
Betikama and St Joseph’s Tenaru will debate whether adaptation is a better response to climate change than mitigation. St Nicholas College and Selwyn College will consider if small island states like Solomon Islands have a greater obligation to combat climate change than other countries.
The G’Day Solomon Islands Great Debate is a part of the Australian High Commission’s annual public diplomacy program and a stepping stone to regional debating competitions.
Press Release: Australian High Commission Office, Honiara