Jagannath Barooah University successfully organized the 42nd Ex-Principal K.C. Kakoty Inter-College/University Debate Competition on March 28, 2026. The prestigious annual event brought together some of the finest young debaters from across Assam to engage in a stimulating intellectual exchange on the motion:
“In the opinion of the House, use of Artificial Intelligence in education is the only means of fostering effective learning.”
Opening and Proceedings
The programme was seamlessly anchored by Mr. Subhasish Sarmah, Dean of Students’ Affairs. The event was formally inaugurated by the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Jyoti Prasad Saikia. In his inaugural address, Prof. Saikia emphasized that participation holds greater value than victory, encouraging students to utilize such platforms to enhance their analytical thinking, confidence, and communication skills.
The session was chaired by Dr. Kajal Saikia, Chief General Manager (HRD), Numaligarh Refinery, a distinguished debater and poet. The proceedings were efficiently managed by Mr. Papumani Hazarika, who served as the Time Keeper.
Participation and Evaluation
The competition witnessed enthusiastic participation from 23 institutions, with over 50 debaters presenting well-structured arguments both for and against the motion.
The participants were evaluated by an eminent panel of judges:
- Mukul Madhab Baishya, Solution Architect and noted Quizmaster
- Ranju Moni Mahanta, Advocate, Jorhat Bar Association
- Simana Tamuly, Assistant Professor, Biswanath College of Agriculture
Official Results
Following a day of rigorous debate and critical engagement, the winners were declared as follows:
- Best Team: Samir Rimal & Utpal Jyoti Bora (Dibrugarh University)
- 2nd Best Team: Rahul Rohan Paul & Sudipta Saikia (Tezpur University)
- 3rd Best Team: Mriganka Barman & Soumitro Chakroborty (Assam Agricultural University)
- Best Debater: Rahul Rohan Paul (Tezpur University)
- 2nd Best Debater: Utpal Jyoti Bora (Dibrugarh University)
Prize Distribution and Souvenir Release
The prize distribution ceremony was graced by Dr. Kajal Saikia as the Chief Guest, who also formally released the commemorative souvenir volume. The souvenir was jointly edited by Dr. Mushrifa Ibrahim, Dr. Bhupen Kumar Boruah, and Dr. Pushpanjali Hazarika.
The session was presided over by Dr. Utpal Jyoti Mahanta, Registrar of the University. The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Annesha Sarmah, Debating Secretary, who expressed sincere gratitude to all participants, judges, and organizers for contributing to the success of the event.