Success at the Regional Round of “Jugend debattiert”

A major success for us at the regional round of the Age Group II category of Jugend debattiert: Helena and Mattheo, two students from Schule Schloss Salem, both reached the final of the competition, which was hosted at the school. Helena secured first place, qualifying for the next stage at state level. Mattheo finished in third place and is the first reserve candidate for the state competition. Second place went to Carolin from Schule Birklehof.

In the competition, students from various schools faced one another in challenging debates on socially relevant issues. Participants were assessed on their subject knowledge, clarity of expression, ability to engage in discussion, and persuasiveness. For Mattheo, simply reaching the final was already a special moment: “Making it to the final was a great achievement for me. The competition has given me a great deal of confidence – particularly when it comes to clearly stating my position in front of others.”

With her victory, Helena not only advances to the qualifying round for the state competition but will also take part in the winners’ seminar beforehand, where those who have qualified receive intensive training. “Jugend debattiert has shown me how crucial it is to listen carefully, to think through other viewpoints thoroughly, and to question them critically in order to debate fairly,” she says. “I see the winners’ seminar as a fantastic opportunity to further refine my debating skills and to learn from the experiences of former national champions.”

“The final appearances and placements demonstrate just how confidently our students tackle complex issues and engage in fair and thoughtful debate,” emphasises Henrik Fass, Head of Schule Schloss Salem. The competition, he notes, perfectly reflects the school’s educational philosophy of empowering young people to think independently, articulate their views clearly, and engage in responsible dialogue.

The Baden-Württemberg state qualifying round will take place on 27 March, with the state final scheduled for 17 April.

Jugend debattiert is held under the patronage of the Federal President. Its partners include the Hertie Foundation, the Robert Bosch Foundation, the Mercator Foundation and the Heinz Nixdorf Foundation, as well as the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs and the respective state ministries of education.