Overview:

If you can't convince, confuse. These are the words that the members of the Hwa Chong Debate Club (HCDC) live by. Debating is not just pure sophistry: it involves the clashing of argument against argument, point against point, in a frenzy of reasoned assertions that lasts up to an hour. 

Due to the small size of our club, we are an exceptionally bonded group of individuals. We often see each other outside of CCA sessions and engage in activities that deepen our friendships outside of the club setting. 

During debates, we not only practice our debating skills, but also learn far more about the world we live and breathe in. Joining Hwa Chong Debates will enhance not only your argumentative abilities, but your capacity to understand why governments set policies, why individuals hold dear certain things, and why societies evolve and grow. All debaters in our club have blossomed into responsible, rational thinkers endowed with the 21st Century Competencies necessary to succeed in life.

Schedule:

Every Wednesday and Friday, 1500 - 1800pm

*All CCA timings are subject to change according to the availability of members.

Requirements:

An interest in the English Arts, a willingness to take initiative and an open mind and heart. A keen interest in current affairs and the motivation to improve one's debating abilities both in and out of training. No prior debating experience required.

Key Events Planned:

Hwa Chong Asian Parliamentaries (HCAPs), our flagship homegrown debating competition, set to launch in early 2026 and including teams from schools all over Singapore as well as a national-level judging panel. Members of the club will be actively involved in both planning and executing the event, so be on the lookout!

Achievements:

Champions, Singapore Polytechnic Debating Open 2025

Champions, MOE Intercollegiate Debating Championships 2025

Finalists, Taylor's Asian Parliamentaries 2025

Champions, Singapore Polytechnic Debating Open 2024

1st Runners-Up, MOE Intercollegiate Debating Championships 2024

Novice Quarter-finalists, NTU Debating Championships 2024

Quarterfinalists, NUSPA Debate Series 2024

1st Runners-Up, MOE Intercollegiate Debating Championships 2023

Semi-finalists, Mid Year Invitationals 2023

Teachers-in-charge

Mdm Madihah bte Mahmood (madihah@hci.edu.sg)

Mr Koh Eng Chye Frederick (frederickkoh@hci.edu.sg)

Mdm Shakeela Banu D/O Mohamed Asrafali (shakeela@hci.edu.sg)