LAHORE: (Thursday, December 7, 2023): The Character-Building Society (CBS) at the Institute of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (IMMG), University of Punjab, organized the “IMMG Annual Debates Competition 2023”, on December 7, 2023. The main idea of the event centered on the theme of corruption, the root cause of many problems in the society. The event had two segments; Urdu Debates followed by English Debates. Among the judges were the Professor. Dr Shahida Husnain, HEC, National Distinguished Professor, Dr Anjum Nasim Sabri, Director of IMMG, Professor Dr Fakar-ul-Haq Noori, Former Dean, Principal of Oriental College, Institute of Urdu Language and Literature, Dr Aamir Aziz, Assistant Professor Institute of English Studies, Prof. Dr. Abdul Rehman, Institute of MMG, University of the Punjab. The panelists also included CBS-IMMG Faculty Advisors Dr. Imran Sajid, Associate Professor-IMMG and Dr. Nousheen Zahra Zaidi Associate Professor IMMG. The event began with the name of Almighty Allah, which was followed by Na’at. The President and Vice Presidents of CBS then took the stage as comparers and formally introduced the audience and judges to the Debates event, shedding light on the topics for both segments. The topic for the Urdu Debates was “Corruption is not an individual but a societal problem” and the topic for English Debates was “Public shaming is an effective tool to deter corruption”. The competition then began with Urdu Debates taking place first which were then followed by English Debates. The students delivered their enthusiastic speeches covering a wide range of topics and perspectives, analyzing the root causes of corruption, including societal, economic and cultural factors. They also discussed the negative consequences of corruption on economic development, social justice, and political stability. Aside from the participating students, two other students from BS-4 volunteered to recite Kalam-e-Iqbal and National Song during the event. Before announcing the results, both esteemed judges appreciated the speakers on their excellent speech, they emphasized the role of individuals and civil society in the fight against corruption. The winners from both the Urdue and English debate were awarded shields and certificates for the positions of winners, runners-up and third positions. Shields of appreciation were also presented to the honorable guests, at the concluding ceremony concluding of the event.