A new international debating competition for university students from across the Commonwealth, delivered by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) in partnership with the English-Speaking Union (ESU). National competitions are hosted online by ACU member universities, and each country’s winning team travels to London for finals week with the ESU.
A new international debating competition for university students across the Commonwealth was launched yesterday at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) at the Commonwealth Youth Forum. This competition will create a platform for the next generation of leaders to debate global issues, strengthen critical thinking skills and build connections across borders.
The ESU Commonwealth Debating Competition, facilitated by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) in partnership with the English-Speaking Union (ESU), will bring together university students from across the Commonwealth in a unique programme of national and international debate.
Hosted online by ACU member universities, national competitions will take place in participating Commonwealth countries, culminating in a finals week in London where national champion teams will compete to become the inaugural Commonwealth debating champions.
The competition aims to provide students with opportunities to develop the communication, leadership and analytical skills that are increasingly vital in addressing today's global challenges.
Colin Riordan, Secretary General and Chief Executive of the Association of Commonwealth Universities, said:
“Universities have always been places where ideas are tested, challenged and refined. The ESU Commonwealth Debating Competition creates a new opportunity for students from across the Commonwealth to come together, engage with different perspectives and develop the confidence, critical thinking and communication skills that future leaders need.
For host universities, the competition offers a unique opportunity to raise their profile, strengthen national partnerships and become a hub for student talent within their country, while contributing to an international Commonwealth initiative.
At a time when constructive dialogue across borders is more important than ever, this competition will help build meaningful connections between young people from diverse backgrounds and strengthen the ties that unite our Commonwealth community.
We are delighted to be partnering with the English-Speaking Union on this exciting initiative and look forward to seeing universities and students play a leading role in shaping its future success.”
Creating a Commonwealth conversation
The new initiative will give university students a platform to engage with some of the most important issues facing their generation while connecting with peers from diverse backgrounds, cultures and perspectives.
National competitions will be open to teams of students from universities within each participating country. Competitors will debate a series of motions using the internationally recognised British Parliamentary format, with judging panels provided by the ESU.
The winning team from each national competition will travel to London for finals week, where they will take part in advanced debate training, cultural activities and a programme of competitive debates hosted by the ESU.
The week will culminate in a grand final in the Debating Chamber at Dartmouth House, the ESU's headquarters in London.
Louisa M. Searle, Director of Education at the English-Speaking Union commented:
“Debate teaches young people to listen as well as to speak, and to take ideas seriously, including the ones they disagree with. We’re delighted to work with the ACU to bring that experience to university students across the Commonwealth. Competing against peers from different countries and backgrounds will stretch their thinking and build friendships that last well beyond the competition. We can’t wait to welcome the national champions to Dartmouth House and see who becomes the first Commonwealth debating champions.”
Opportunity for ACU member universities
The ACU is inviting expressions of interest from member universities interested in becoming national host institutions for the competition.
Selected host universities will organise and administer their country's online national competition, bringing together teams from universities across the country and helping to identify the students who will represent their nation on the international stage.
Register your interest
Expressions of interest for universities wishing to host a national competition are now open.
For expressions of interest, host applications and competition logistics, visit the ESU website: www.esu.org/cwdc