Students from Port Moresby National School of Excellence (POMSOE) had a strong showing at the PNG Schools Resource Debate, they’re heading into the semi-finals ranked No. 1 out of the top six teams, scoring an impressive 745 points in the preliminary rounds. They now advance with confidence, strategy and a whole lot of teamwork. But this wasn’t just about winning. For these students, debating is about finding their voice, learning real-world issues and showing Papua New Guinea, that young people have something powerful to say. According to Mrs. Masere, the Head of the English Department, the debate is about much more than public speaking. It’s a full-team showcase. “We’re preparing them for the outside world,” she said. "We have three different streams; science, humanities and STEM and the English department connects them. These debates are how we market our students.” Mrs Masere added that her selection wasn’t just based on grades, but on how well students could connect with an audience. “I picked students who don’t rely too much on notes. They speak naturally and engage the room. The other students were researchers which they gathered the facts and gave the content to the final speakers,” said Mrs. Masere. On the day of the debate, POMNSOE’s original opponent didn’t turn up. With only minutes to spare, the school formed an opposition team from within their own student group. Despite the surprise, both sides were ready to speak about what they had originally researched to argue for. “We were prepared to be the affirmative,” said Angelina Ageva, the first speaker of the opposing team. “But when we had no opponent, we flipped sides and debated our own team. It was a fun challenge.” The affirmative (government) team included, Tiriman Masi, - First speaker, who is from mainstream Science, Dago Morea, 2nd speaker from the humanities stream, Raychamal Urai, 3rd speaker from STEM stream. The newly formed opposition team featured Caleb Orape, 3rd speaker, from STEM science, Ephraim Anaibere, 2nd speaker, and finally Angelina Ageva from the science stream as the 1st speaker. In response to why debate is important, Caleb said, “Many young Papua New Guineans don’t know how to express themselves. That can lead to frustration. Debate helps us speak up peacefully.” Ephraim agreed. “We’re not just learning how to talk, we’re learning how our country works.” Angelina added, “It’s not about showing off who’s smart. It’s about being heard and being ready to lead.” Mrs Masere said the school was proud to represent all National Schools of Excellence, especially with this year marking POMSOE’s 30th anniversary. “Some top schools weren’t here, so we stood in for them too,” she said. “Our hope is that the students are seen, not just by judges, but by recruiters, policymakers and future employers.” The team is now preparing to face Kopkop College in the semi-finals on Wednesday, July 23. The motion will be: “Establishing a stand-alone sovereign wealth fund would enhance transparency, peaceful stability and intergenerational equity compared to relying on state-owned enterprises.” The grand final is set for Friday, July 25 during the Golden Resource Exhibition. As the top seed, all eyes are now on POMSOE.