In a powerful display of intellect and youth engagement, nine schools in Port Moresby city converged at APEC Haus for the Emstret Schools Debate preliminary round on Tuesday, July 16, 2025, as part of the second week of the PNG Resources Golden Exhibition.

The annual debate, organized by Emstret Holdings and supported by PNG CORE and other resource-sector partners, spotlighted students debating issues critical to Papua New Guinea’s resource future and challenged them to tackle complex motions on governance, sustainability, security, and gender inclusion in the country’s resource industries.

Marienville Secondary School, a regular contender, was absent this year after its training camp was cancelled, opening the field to fresh competitors and reshuffled matchups.

“The debate, themed around Resources and Energy, aims to foster critical thinking and civic dialogue among young minds on the nation's vital resource and energy sectors,” PNG CORE stated in its media release.

Debate Round Results

Judges evaluated teams on originality, local relevance, structure, and teamwork. Emphasis was placed on strong introductions, logical rebuttals, and PNG-specific examples.

One judge told students, “All the examples in the world are right here in front of us. We want them to dig deep into their own communities and experiences.”

Officially opening the debate, PNG CORE Senior Vice President Mr. Richard E. Kassman OBE connected the event to national progress.

“When you walk through PNG CORE’s Golden Resources Exhibition, you will indeed join us in commemorating the 50 years of operations for the Resource sector. And there is much to celebrate and be proud of,” he said. "To all our student debaters, this is your stage.”

Mr. Kassman described the debate as more than a contest—calling public speaking an invaluable skill that elevates debate to a “higher stratosphere,” critical not only for academic performance but also for long-term careers.

While many teams showed confidence and knowledge, judges encouraged clearer conclusions and actionable recommendations—elements that will be essential in the upcoming semi-finals.

The Top Six Schools Progressing to Semi-Finals (July 23) are,

The semi-finals, open to the public, will take place on Wednesday, July 23, again at APEC Haus. The winners from each match-up will proceed to the grand final on Friday, July 25, concluding what has become a powerful platform for youth voice and national reflection.