KUWAIT: The “Power of the Word” debate forum, held by Kuwait University (KU) in cooperation with the National Debate Team, was inaugurated in Sabah Al-Salem University City. The program was scheduled from September 19 to 21, 2023, under the patronage of the Minister of Commerce and Industry and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Muhammad Al-Aiban, and in the presence of the Acting Director of Kuwait University, Dr. Fayez Al-Dhafiri, and the Acting Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Jassim Al-Hamdan.

Minister Mohammed Al-Aiban stressed the support for such programs, which are aimed at preserving Kuwait’s identity, supporting the Arabic language, and promoting reading, pointing out that “investing in youths is a real and sustainable investment, and its returns are always visible and tangible in the quality of the performance.” He added that the support and sponsorship will encourage state institutions, led by Kuwait University, and young men and women.

The Acting Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Jassim Al-Hamdan, said: “This meeting brings us back to the first building block in 2011 and the launch of student activity at Kuwait University for the first student debates.”

He expressed his happiness to be present in this forum, pointing out that the establishment of such a forum provides university students with the opportunity to express their opinions, develop respect for other opinions, and develop the skills of listening, analysis, and criticism, in addition to refining the skill of expression, collecting and selecting ideas, and developing their skills.

The head of the National Debate Team, Fahad Al-Subaie, explained: “The debates contain a set of messages with a positive impact, including the activities of a student, which develop his or her abilities, strengthen his or her personality, and increase his or her circle of knowledge.” Al-Subaie thanked Kuwait University for embracing the Debate Forum, stressing that this enriches the art of debate and increases people’s awareness.

The panel discussion revolved around the role of dialogue in decision-making and was moderated by the media, Mohammed Al-Saddani, MP Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Saqoubi, and MP Hamad Al-Olayan, among others.