St. Columba’s School Emerges Victorious

St. Columba’s School, New Delhi, has once again demonstrated its formidable legacy in debating by emerging Champions of the St. John’s All India Debate (SJAID) 2026, one of the most coveted and prestigious debating events on the national school circuit.

Held at St. John’s High School, Chandigarh, on 7th and 8th August 2026, the two-day competition witnessed participation from 20 leading schools from across India, bringing together some of the finest young orators and critical thinkers in the country.

The competition comprised four intensely contested rounds, spread across two days, testing the participants’ ability to think critically, construct compelling arguments, respond spontaneously to opposing viewpoints, and articulate their ideas with clarity, conviction and confidence. Each round demanded not merely eloquence, but also the ability to think incisively, articulate convincingly, and respond with agility—qualities that distinguish accomplished debaters from merely competent speakers.

Representing St. Columba’s School, our accomplished debaters Hariaksh Maggo of Class XII-E and Tanveer Singh Narula of Class XII-C rose magnificently to the occasion. With their incisive arguments, persuasive delivery, remarkable composure and exceptional command over the art of debate, the duo consistently impressed the adjudicators and emerged First in the competition.

Their outstanding performance earned the school the coveted Rolling Trophy, while both debaters were individually honoured with Winner’s Cups. Adding further distinction to their achievement, the team was also awarded a cash prize of ₹1,00,000.

The victory is a testament to the students’ intellectual preparedness, perseverance and dedication, as well as to the culture of enquiry, critical thinking and fearless expression fostered by St. Columba’s School.

The triumph at SJAID 2026 is particularly significant as it places St. Columba’s School at the forefront of the national debating landscape. Hariaksh and Tanveer have not only brought home the coveted championship but have also upheld the proud Columban tradition of thinking boldly, speaking fearlessly and debating with purpose.

Their remarkable success has made the entire Columban fraternity proud and serves as an inspiration to aspiring young debaters.

A Victory of Voice, Vision and Verve!

Congratulations to Hariaksh Maggo and Tanveer Singh Narula on this outstanding national-level achievement!

- The Debating Society