Today, the Prevo Cinemall Ballroom was filled with youthful intelligence as the Dominica Bar Association presented their Public Speaking Contest as part of Law Week 2024. The topic for discussion: “Who needs a professional’s intelligence when there is artificial intelligence?” Moderator Ms. Carlita Benjamin guided the event.
6 third-form students from various secondary schools across Dominica took the stage, to offer their perspectives. Machen Joseph from The Northeast Comprehensive School, Kurdez Simon from St. Martin Secondary School, René Talbert from The Dominica Grammar School, Jason Han from St. Mary’s Academy, Ethan St. Hilliare from Community High School, and Kruz Ferraia from The Orion Academy.
Speeches were limited to a maximum of 5 minutes, allowing the use of notes but encouraging extemporaneous speaking for better presentation. The presentation order was chosen through a draw, each student selecting a number. Strict adherence to time was emphasized. Deductions were applied for overtime, with 2 points for exceeding the time limit by one additional minute and 3 points for exceeding the 6-minute mark.
The grading rubric, with a maximum of 100 points, included categories such as content (40 points), focusing on depth of analysis, theme relevance, legal understanding and originality. Delivery (30 points), assessing clarity, pacing, audience engagement, poise, and overall confidence. Structure (20 points), evaluating logical organization, clear introduction, compelling argument, and concise conclusion. Language skill (10 points), considering proper grammar, relevant vocabulary, and overall eloquence of delivery.
A distinguished panel of five judges, boasting over 63 years of combined legal advocacy experience from both the private bar and Attorney General Chambers, evaluated each presentation. Mrs. Heather Felix Evans, Mrs. Dawn Yearwood-Stewart, Mr. Kevin Julian, Mr. Jason Lawrence, and Ms. Nadira Lando contributed their expertise as they assessed the students’ research, flexibility, logical reasoning, and explanation of points.
As the judges deliberated, students and teachers from the audience engaged in a question-and-answer session, offering diverse perspectives on the role of artificial intelligence versus human intelligence in today’s world.
Jason Han from St. Mary’s Academy secured third place with an impressive score of 423 points. Kruz Ferreira from Orion Academy took second place with 427 points. René Talbert from Dominica Grammar School who emerged victorious, earning the first-place prize with a remarkable score of 470 points out of 500. Participation prizes were awarded to each student.
The event would not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors such as Bulls Eye Pharmacy, Jolly’s Pharmacy, The Watering Can, Emo News, and Prevo Cinemall and contributions from the Dominica Bar Association.
Written by Adelle Pascal
