Galgotias University Students Secure First Place in Verdict National Debate at IIT Roorkee 2026
In a remarkable display of intellectual prowess, students from Galgotias University have emerged as the national champions of the Verdict National Debate Competition held during Cognizance 2026 at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee. This significant achievement not only highlights the university’s commitment to excellence in education but also showcases the exceptional talents of its students in a competitive environment.
The Winning Team
The winning duo, Rahat Shuja and Khushi Kumari, represented Galgotias University with distinction. Rahat, a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Electronics and Communication Engineering, and Khushi, a first-year Master of Computer Applications (MCA) student, both specialize in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Their victory is a testament to the university’s ability to blend technical rigor with high-level communication skills.
Insights from the Winners
Rahat Shuja shared his thoughts on the experience, stating, “Having the freedom to participate across multiple areas, along with the encouragement of our faculty, made this experience meaningful.” He emphasized that winning was a byproduct of the exposure they received, which empowered them to compete with outstanding students from across the country.
Khushi Kumari also reflected on their success, noting that the win was as much about psychological strength as it was about debating skills. “Our objective was to compete at the highest level and present arguments with clarity and precision,” she remarked. “Securing the championship for Galgotias University reflects the value of preparation and the confidence that comes from sharpening one’s thinking.”
The Competition
The Verdict National Debate Competition is renowned for its high-pressure environment and demanding logical reasoning. Participants are required to present well-structured arguments and engage in rigorous discussions, making it a formidable challenge for even the most experienced debaters. The event took place in the historic Senate Hall of the IIT Roorkee campus, adding to the prestige of the competition.
Significance of the Victory
This victory marks a significant milestone for Galgotias University, located in Greater Noida, as its students outperformed representatives from some of the country’s most elite technical and liberal arts institutions. The success of Shuja and Kumari underscores a shifting paradigm in higher education, particularly in the context of the evolving landscape shaped by automation and artificial intelligence.
Higher Education in the AI Era
As industries continue to be transformed by automation and AI, Galgotias University has adapted its educational approach to foster critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and the ability to remain composed in unfamiliar situations. The university aims to provide its students with a “broader lens” of development, equipping them with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Appreciation for Organizers
Galgotias University expressed its appreciation to the organizers of Cognizance 2026 at IIT Roorkee for providing a national platform that celebrates competitive excellence and intellectual dialogue. Such events play a crucial role in encouraging students to engage with complex issues and develop their argumentative skills in a supportive environment.
Conclusion
The achievement of Rahat Shuja and Khushi Kumari at the Verdict National Debate Competition is a proud moment for Galgotias University. Their success not only reflects their individual talents but also the university’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals capable of excelling in diverse fields. As higher education continues to evolve, the focus on critical thinking and effective communication will remain essential in preparing students for the challenges of the future.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest updates and achievements of Galgotias University as of April 21, 2026.
