The Rabindra University unit Bashundhara Shuvosangho has organised a debate competition titled “Modern culture is damaging our traditions” on the campus to foster rational thinking, analytical skills, leadership qualities, and a culture of respectful expression among the youth.
In the debate, the government side highlighted the negative impacts of modern culture, arguing that excessive modern fashion and blind imitation of Western culture are distancing the younger generation from their own traditions and values.
They said the overuse of the English language is alienating many young people from their culture and national identity.
They added that history and heritage should be understood from one’s own roots, not through the lens of Facebook.
On the other hand, the opposition side argued that culture represents the overall way of life of a society and that change and modernisation are natural over time, with technology accelerating this transformation.
They said social media and technology have enabled people to exchange information more quickly and maintain family and social relationships more easily.
In their view, the modernisation of culture does not destroy tradition; rather, it makes it more acceptable and universal for the new generation.
The event was conducted by Rabindra University unit Shuvosangho General Secretary Md Shahed Akter. Judges included Department of Music Lecturer Babul Hossain and Department of Bangla Lecturer Sabequne Khaleque Suba, both members of Shuvosangho’s advisory panel.
After the debate, members of the judging panel told students that debating is not merely a competition but also an effective way to develop critical thinking, confidence, and leadership skills.
They said practising evidence-based arguments and respecting differing opinions play an important role in shaping responsible citizens.
At the end of the competition, judges declared the opposition side the winner. However, both winning and runner-up teams were presented with books as gifts.
Shahed Akter said similar educational and cultural activities would continue in the future to help develop students’ intellect, creativity, and leadership skills.
Thanking all participants, organisers, and others involved, he encouraged students to engage regularly in debate practice and knowledge-based activities.
The government side participants were Mahfuz Alam Samudra, Jewel Rana, Ferdous Hossain, and Khushi, while the opposition side members were Chaiti Gupta Payel, Tisha Saha, Tanushree Mohanta, and Kabyashree Roy.
Among others present at the event were Rabindra University unit Shuvosangho Finance Secretary Jewel Rana, Organising Secretary Akash Roy, Publicity Secretary Md Ferdous Hossain, Women’s Affairs Secretary Chaiti Gupta Payel, and Event Secretary Arefin Islam.
Bd-Pratidin English/ AM
