By Prima Coutinho and Dorothy Fernandes for BIS Mumbai

The Inter-Stream Debate Competition for the academic year 2025–26 was successfully held at Don Bosco Junior College, Naigaon East, Palghar District, Mumbai. The debate centred on the highly relevant and widely discussed theme, “AI: A Threat to Humanity?”—a topic that resonates strongly with the Salesian mission of forming responsible, reflective, and ethically grounded young individuals. By selecting this theme, the institution aimed to deepen student awareness about artificial intelligence, its advantages and vulnerabilities, and the importance of integrating technology with moral responsibility. The purpose was not only to examine AI as a modern tool but also to draw attention to the subtle yet significant ways in which the overuse of platforms like ChatGPT and other AI tools have diminished independent thinking, weakened imagination, and reduced the creative potential of today’s youth. The debate ultimately encouraged learners to realise that while AI can assist human progress, human intellect, conscience, and moral judgement must remain at the heart of all innovation. The event commenced with an inspiring address by the Rector, Fr Dominic Martis. He urged students to understand the ethical implications of innovation and to grow as authentic communicators rooted in human values despite the growing influence of the digital world.

To gauge student perspectives before the debate, a Google Forms opinion poll was conducted across all classes and the poll clearly indicated that a majority of students viewed AI as a matter of concern, setting the tone for a thoughtful and engaging debate.

The participants were trained in the WSDC – World Schools Debate Championship format under the guidance of Fr Joaquim Fernandes, Vice Principal, with Tr Lovely Gavad supporting the training process. The event was moderated by Mrs Prima Coutinho, a dedicated educator who has been serving the institution for fifteen years. The debate featured three participants from each stream; Science and Commerce, following a well-structured ten-segment format designed to ensure fairness, clarity, and intellectual engagement. The Proposition Team argued convincingly that AI poses significant risks to global stability, highlighting concerns such as an AI-driven arms race and more. In response, the Opposition Team asserted that AI is not inherently a threat but rather a transformative tool that benefits society when used responsibly.

The program was honoured by a seasoned and professional panel of judges - Mr Abhishek Sharma, Ms Leena Pereira, and Mr Dwayne Fernandes. Ms Manjula Kadirvel, a practicing lawyer, served as the Guest of Honour. Mr Abhishek Sharma stressed that AI’s impact depends greatly on human intention and proper governance. The Principal, Fr Anthony Fonseca, emphasised that such programs nurture critical thinking and empower students to make responsible choices in life.

The debate reinforced the Salesian vision of forming young people who think independently, uphold human values, and use technology responsibly—as a tool, and not as a replacement for human.