International Public Policy Forum progresses to "sweet sixteen" round

Since November 4th, 32 high schools from around the world have been competing in the International Public Policy Forum debate essay competition. This year's topic is, "Resolved: The United Nations should substantially increase humanitarian assistance for persons living in poverty." Here are the "sweet sixteen" teams who have advanced in this year's competition:

Nanyang Girls', Singapore
McNeil, Texas, USA
Princess Anne, Virginia, USA
Henry Clay, Kentucky, USA
Shady Side, Pennsylvania, USA
Samuel Marsden, New Zealand
Atlantic, Florida, USA
Henry Grady, Georgia, USA
Notre Dame, California, USA
Chaparral, Colorado, USA
Cherry Creek, Colorado, USA
Shanley, North Dakota, USA
Suncoast, Florida, USA
Clear Brook, Texas, USA
Singapore MOE, Singapore
Maritzburg, South Africa

The "elite eight" teams will be announced on February 10th and will be flown to New York City for the IPPF Finals at NYU on April 17th-19th. Elimination rounds will be held in front of a distinguished panel of experts, including Retired General Wesley K. Clark. Debaters will be competing for $30,000 in prize money, including a $10,000 grand prize. For more information, visit the IPPF website, Facebook, or Youtube.