A training on Debating was conducted by the Coordinator of the project Miss Nada Toufaily who is a master trainer with Search for Common Ground in Active Voices Project and among the Core Group of USPEaK in a US Embassy funded project in 2012. The goal of debating training is to familiarize learners with effective communication skills where listening and respect are very important. Six classes received this training: Jib Jannine and  Kamed El Loz in West Bekaa, Minyeh and Masha in North Lebanon, Aramoun and Ain Anoub in Aley got introduced to the principles of debating and means of efficient dialogue. A visit took place by the public affairs officer, Ms. Ellen Peterson who attended the Ain Anoub Debating session and met with our partner. The training targeted Lebanese (5 classes)  and Syrians (Aramoun Class). Women were active through the sessions and enthusiastically participated. A debating event was held at USPEaK’s office in Baalbeck for the 6 classes where two classes debated one issue. The topics that were debated by ladies:

• Women’s Quota of 30% at least is a must
• Harassment against women is not the fault of women
• It is a right/no right for a man to punish his wife

The event was followed by a quick lunch and a visit to the temples of Baalbeck