Pro-vice-chancellor of Dhaka University Prof AFM Yusuf Haider inaugurated the festival at Kushtia Zila School by hoisting the national flag.

Earlier, a colourful procession was brought out which paraded different roads of the town. Participants of different educational institutions across the country joined the procession.

A large number of people gathered at the debate ground around noon when it was opened for all.

In his speech as the chief guest, Prof Haider said the present generation would lead Bangladesh one day. So, all must make sure that a good environment prevails where children could build themselves up to the aspirations of the country.

Prof Haider stressed the need for making a brilliant and genius generation for the nation. He said refined knowledge could be gained through debates.

The National Debate Federation (NDF) gave Prof Haider a crest acknowledging his outstanding lifetime contribution to the practice and movement of debate in the country.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Kushtia Nurul Islam, Chairman of Biswas Group Mainuddin Biswas Babu, Managing Director of Ambition Pass Consultant Enamul Haq and Headmaster of Kushtia Zila School Nibha Rani Pathak also attended the inaugural ceremony.

Three debates took place on the first day. They were on: "Only the next generation can build a prosperous Bangladesh", "There is nobody but you everywhere" and "Teachers are more romantic than the students."

A number of other programmes were also included in the festival--free rendezvous, workshop, stage debate (in two different models), a cultural programme and film exhibition.

A total of 24 schools, 29 colleges, 26 public and private universities, eight organisations and 11 public and private medical colleges are taking part in the festival.

The final session of the debate competition will be held today. Editor of Bangladesh Observer Iqbal Sobhan Choudhury is expected to attend the second day's programme as chief guest while Pro-vice-chancellor of Rajshahi University Prof Mamunul Keramat is expected to be the special guest.