Dollar Academy pupil Ruth Cameron is celebrating becoming a world champion after Scotland’s victory in South Africa at the 2012 World Schools Debating Championships in Cape Town last week. The Form VI pupil represented Scotland in a team of five of the best debaters from schools across the country.
The tournament, which started on the 17th January, had 48 countries in attendance. Team Scotland put in a solid performance in every round, debating a wide range of subjects before meeting Wales in the final on Thursday 26th.
The final, which was chaired by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, debated the motion: ‘This House regrets South Africa’s decision to use the Truth and Reconciliation Commission rather than prosecuting perpetrators of crimes committed under Apartheid’.
This is the fourth time that Scotland has won this prestigious competition since its inception in 1988 in Australia.
The school is delighted with the result. Rector, David Knapman commented: “Debating is a very popular activity amongst pupils of all ages at Dollar. Ruth’s performance was outstanding and we are all very proud of her achievements and her contribution to Scotland’s success.”
Scotland’s performance has also been praised by First Minister Alex Salmond, who commended the team as fantastic ambassadors for Scotland on the world stage.