2011 SAASTA National Schools Debates

The 2011 edition debated two topics at provincial level and three at national level. The topics covered the fields of Biotechnology, Nanotechnology, Biodiversity, Hydrogen Fuel Cells and Palaeontology, and were debated fiercely by the participating learners. Hudson Park High School from the Eastern Cape were named the national champions and won a trip to the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, America.

Essay Topics

Biodiversity:
South Africa has a rich body of indigenous knowledge, recognised biodiversity hotspots as well as a fairly technologically advanced society. Can biotechnology be used to conserve our biodiversity?

Nanotechnology:
Can nanotechnology make alternative energy sources, such as hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, a viable solution to our future energy crisis?

Palaeontology:
South Africa hosts eight World Heritage Sites. Does the history contained in these sites have any practical relevance in SA today?

The winners for the 2011 National School Debates

1^stplace – Hudson Park High School (Eastern Cape)
2^nd place – Mafikeng High School (North West)
3^rd place – St. Mary’s DSG (KwaZulu-Natal)