Chittagong University Debating Society (CUDS) have become the champions of the first National Virtual Debate Completion on Suicide Prevention.
The competition was organized by the Dhaka University Faculty of Business Studies Debating Club (FBSDC) and Aachol Foundation, a non-profit social organization.
North South University Debating Club (NSUDC) were the runner up at the three-day tournament, which ran from November 20-22. A total 32 teams from across the country participated.
Dr Murad Hasan, state minister for the Ministry of Information, announced the winner and runner up during the closing ceremony of the debate.
Chief guest Dr Murad Hasan said mental health is important for a healthy life, but it is often ignored.
“The government is working towards building awareness about mental health,” he added.
“Many students and youths in the country commit suicide every year, which is unexpected. A campaign such as the debate competition will play a sound role in suicide prevention,” the state minister said.
Prof Mohammad Abdul Moin, dean of the Faculty of Business Studies at DU, Prof KM Saiful Islam Khan, provost of the Sir A F Rahman hall of DU, Dr Santus Kumer Deb, moderator of FBSDC, and Shohel Mamun, senior reporter at Dhaka Tribune, spoke at the event as special guests. Tanvir Ahmed al-Amin, secretary general of the FDSDC, moderated the prize given ceremony.
Prof Mohammad Abdul Moin said about 100 teams had registered for the tournament and 32 were selected to compete.
“As the suicide is rising in the country and the coronavirus pandemic is worsening, such a debate tournament for awareness building is a really timely initiative,” he added.
