There are experiences that not only bring knowledge, but also open a new door for each student to see a more mature version of themselves. For Dang Thi Lan Phuong – a student of class 11S1, participating in the Beijing International Debate Competition 2025 from November 13-18, 2025 is a milestone where thinking, courage and the desire to explore are strongly awakened.
The competition is held annually according to WSDC rules, bringing together 40 excellent debate teams from many Asian countries. There, each round is a challenge, each argument is a test of thinking, courage and reflexes. In that competitive academic atmosphere, Lan Phuong stepped onto the stage with the confidence and determination of a HASian who is always ready to step out of her comfort zone and embrace new experiences.
With a serious learning spirit and a clear strategy, Phuong and her team created proud results:
- Top 74/110 in individual score,
- 23/40 in total team score.
Behind those numbers are hours of analyzing the topic, constantly debating and even moments of overcoming herself. It was a journey in which Lan Phuong not only learned how to debate better, but also explored more deeply her own thinking ability, patience and future orientation.
What is more precious is that after the trip, Lan Phuong did not keep that inspiration all to herself. I am cherishing the idea of establishing the H.A.S Debate Club, where students can learn and improve their critical thinking; learn how to listen, persuade and express their opinions in a civilized manner. There, Lan Phuong hopes to create a dynamic academic playground – where every young person has the opportunity to demonstrate the spirit of a HASian: learn to grow, experience to spread and dare to start new things for the community.
Hanoi Adelaide School
Pioneering Competency-Based Education in Vietnam
