The lively debate took place during a youth conference led by the Epping Forest Youth Council (EFYC), where students from secondary schools across the district cast their votes on the motion: “This house believes that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will do more harm than good.”
Students argued in favour by raising concerns about job displacement, the rise of deep fakes, criminal exploitation through voice cloning, and the environmental toll of AI infrastructure.
Those opposed highlighted AI’s potential to advance healthcare, tackle climate change, improve recycling, and boost productivity.
After a thoughtful exchange of views, participants voted against the motion, concluding that AI will do more good than harm.
Yuvan Kumar, an EFYC youth councillor from Chigwell School, said: “I was honoured to have had the opportunity to lead the opposition during the debate.
“The experience was made better by the excellent contributions by all our attendees who engaged with passion and enthusiasm.”
Eighty-seven pupils from eight schools took part in the conference, supported by 17 youth councillors and 12 teachers.
Five guest speakers, including local MP Dr Neil Hudson, contributed to the day.
Amber Griffiths, an EFYC youth councillor from Debden Park High School, said: “It was a pleasure to chair the youth debate at the EFYC’s youth conference, and witness how young people across our district hold a true shared passion to make a difference.
“Working as the chairman, I heard convincing and eloquent arguments from delegates on both sides of the house, which made for an incredible morning of debate and constructive discussion.
“Many students throughout the day told me that they were inspired to continue with public speaking and advocacy on issues they care most about, which has made me both proud to be a youth councillor and faithful in our district’s future.”
The schools represented were Chigwell School, Coopersale Hall School, Davenant Foundation School, Epping St John’s, King Harold School, The Ongar Academy, Roding Valley High School, and West Hatch High School.
Epping Forest District Council leader Chris Whitbread, councillor Kaz Rizvi, chairman Louise Mead, and consort Daisy-Mae Mead also attended the event.
