Students at Strathcona Tweedsmuir school are demonstrating excellence in design, speech and debate.

STS student and Okotoks resident, Dieter Frehlich, developed a virtual reality simulation with intentions to help others overcome a fear of heights, while recently being selected for Team Canada for debate. Frehlich is the only student who will represent Alberta.

" I decided to explore how virtual reality can effect one's identity and the effects on one's psychology. I figured the fear of heights would be a good one to further investigate into." said Frehlich.

The 15- year- old was qualified for Team Canada for debate in a recent trip to Newfoundland and is the only student representing Alberta on the national team.

Zaki Lakhani, who represented Canada recently at the World Individual Debating and Speaking Championships in Cape Town, South Africa, is passionate about debate.

" To be able to think on your feet and to be able to look at perspectives of issues and to think of arguments on either side, combing this element of research, critical thinking and general knowledge of current events is a valuable life skill." said Lakhani.

Lakhani placed 4th overall of 160 competitors in the championships and was awarded the title of World Champion in interpretive reading.

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