The rapid development of science and technology is like an unstoppable wave， propelling the new generation into a new era. From August 22nd to 23rd, the first Inter-Branch Crossing Cup Debate Invitational Tournament, hosted by the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum and the Shanghai Science Education Development Foundation, and co-organized by Shanghai High School International Division, was successfully held at the Shanghai Astronomy Museum on the shores of Dishui Lake. The event was led by the SHSID Debate Team and broadcast live on platforms such as Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, Shanghai Astronomy Museum, Shanghai Natural History Museum, and Shanghai TV. On the day of the final, more than 20,000 viewers watched online. The competition also received coverage from media outlets like Pudong Times, the International Channel Shanghai, Shanghai Daily, Shanghai Education Television Station, and Pudong Television Station.

In preparing for the event, members of our school's debate team displayed remarkable initiative and responsibility, taking charge of all preliminary tasks. They engaged with experts from various fields to discuss the competition's establishment and played an active role in planning the schedule and format. Their efforts aimed to create a platform where outstanding debaters from around the world could share their insights. As early as May, the SHSID debate team managed the online phase by connecting with schools globally, recruiting volunteers and judges, designing exclusive logos and posters, and organizing the on-site decorations. When the event progressed to the offline stage and the challenges intensified, the students rose to the occasion. They worked closely with staff from Shanghai TV Station, Shanghai Astronomy Museum, and other organizations to ensure smooth logistics. SHSID High School Principal Ma Feng attended the two-day event, providing support to the debate team members.

The theme of this competition is closely tied to education, artificial intelligence, and technology. During the online stage, 16 debate teams from Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong China and the United States engaged in discussions on topics such as big data and space exploration. Ultimately, teams from the High School Affiliated to Fudan University, the High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China, Beijing Haidian Kaiwen Academy and Tsinghua International School distinguished themselves and advanced to the offline competition. In the offline stage, the semi-finals focused on the topic, "If work content has nothing to do with the content of study, this should/should not be considered a waste of educational resources." where contestants debated changes in today’s society and the education system. The final round tackled the challenging topic, "AI robots with independent consciousness should/should not have a lifespan set."

As the co-organizer of the event, the SHSID debate team did not participate in the main competition. However, during the grand finals, they engaged in a captivating exhibition debate with a team of top scientists and school principals, creating a highlight of the event. The debate was chaired by Ni Minjing, Director of Shanghai Science and Technology Museum. The team of scientists and school principals included prominent figures, such as Ding Hong, an academician from the Chinese Academy of Sciences; Zhang Zhen, a scientist from Amazon Web Services; Jiang Xuefeng, a professor at East China Normal University; and Zeng Xianyi, the principal of Shanghai Xuhui High School. Jiang Changjian, a well-known TV host, along with student representatives from each participating school, served as judges and provided their insights. The team of scientists and school principals defended the idea that "Mankind will live forever" with insights from both scientific and philosophical perspectives, displaying their considerable expertise and life experience. In contrast, the SHSID debate team, full of youthful enthusiasm, approached the topic with a thorough analysis from scientific, logical, and ethical viewpoints. They challenged the arguments with both respect and assertiveness, highlighting the dynamic spirit and poise of the younger generation. The exhibition debate centered on technological advancements, reflecting on humanity's present and future. It provided a thought-provoking experience, blending technology and the humanities into a visually and intellectually stimulating event.

At the award ceremony, Ni Minjing, Director of Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, along with other distinguished guests, presented awards and certificates to all the winning teams and contestants. The SHSID debate team, which co-organized the event, was honored with the Excellent Organization Award.

The inaugural "Inter-branch Crossing Cup" has successfully concluded, marking a perfect end to the first competition. During the months of preparation, the SHSID debate team remained fully committed, even as the summer vacation came to a close. They worked closely together, aiming to expand the reach of debate to more schools. Their goal was not only to embed the spirit of critical thinking throughout the campus but also to unite schools from various regions to exchange ideas and discuss interpretations of future social issues. Through this event, the SHSID Debate Team showcased their well-rounded abilities, strong sense of social responsibility, and unwavering dedication to serving the community. Looking ahead, we hope our school’s debate team will remain dedicated to improving their critical thinking skills while also continuing to provide volunteer support to peers in our city, throughout China, and around the world.

SHSID will continue to offer comprehensive support and resources to students who are dedicated to serving others, demonstrating leadership, and embodying teamwork, thereby contributing to their personalized and lifelong development.

Written by SHSID Debate Team

Photo by  Event photo live streaming platform

Edited by Ms. Wang Tongyan

Supervised by Ms. Gu Ying, Ms. Shen Chenli, Ms. Yang Xinying