The African Debate Academy (ADA), with immense pride and a profound sense of purpose, invites the world to Nairobi, Kenya for the World Schools Debating Championships (WSDC) 2026.
From 14th to 24th July 2026, we will host this premier global tournament—a historic convergence of over 700 of the brightest young minds, coaches, and judges from more than 80 nations. WSDC 2026 is a landmark moment: the championship's long-awaited return to Africa after 14 years and its first-ever event in East Africa.
For over three decades, WSDC has stood as the pinnacle of secondary school debating. It is a unique platform for young people to engage with complex global issues—from economics and justice to sustainability—honing skills in critical argument and cross-cultural understanding. WSDC 26 proudly continues this legacy on African soil
This is our opportunity to showcase Kenya as a global hub, to amplify African perspectives on the world stage, and to invest in the next generation of thinkers and leaders. We are not merely hosting a competition; we are igniting a global dialogue and building a lasting legacy.
Join us in Nairobi for a celebration of eloquent argument, mutual understanding, and the transformative power of ideas. Together, let's shape the future of global discourse.
Imagine an Olympic Games for high school debaters—where the world’s most talented young thinkers gather to compete not with physical strength, but with the power of their ideas, eloquence, and logic. That is WSDC.
The World Schools Debating Championships (WSDC) is the most prestigious and largest international debating tournament for secondary school students. Held annually, it is the ultimate global summit for school-level debate, bringing together national champion teams from over 70–80 countries across every continent.
In a nutshell, WSDC is:
The Pinnacle: The highest-level competition for school debaters globally.
A Global Gathering: A truly international event, hosted in a different major world city each year.
A Championship of Champions: Teams represent their nations, meaning each debater is among the very best from their country.
For ten intense days each summer, students engage in rigorous debates on complex global issues—from politics and economics to ethics and philosophy. They follow a special format that tests both prepared arguments and quick-thinking improvisation. Beyond the competition, it’s a profound cultural exchange where future leaders build friendships and understanding across borders.
Governed by the international WSDC Council, the championship has built a remarkable legacy since its founding in 1988. More than just a tournament, WSDC is a celebration of critical thinking, articulate expression, and respectful dialogue. It is where the next generation steps onto the world stage to debate the ideas that will shape our shared future.
For WSDC 2026 in Nairobi, we are thrilled to write the next chapter of this storied tradition right here in Africa.
It is with deepest pride that I welcome you to Nairobi for the 26th World Schools Debating Championships. As founder of the African Debate Academy, hosting this premier tournament in Kenya is the fulfillment of a decades-long vision to champion the transformative power of youth voice across our continent.
WSDC 2026 is a historic homecoming—the championship's first event in East Africa and its return to the continent after 14 years. This is more than a tournament; it is a dialogue led from Africa. Here, you will not just visit; you will engage, debate with African perspectives, and collectively craft ideas for the world.
Nairobi, a city of vibrant energy and stunning diversity, offers the perfect stage. You will experience world-class competition, legendary Kenyan hospitality, and the breathtaking beauty of our land. Embrace the rigorous clash of ideas, the rich cultural exchanges, and the friendships that will span the globe.
On behalf of the entire African Debate Academy family and the tireless WSDC 2026 Organizing Committee, we thank you for the journey you will undertake. We thank you for the passion you will bring. We cannot wait for you to add your voice to this great chorus.
We eagerly await the moment the debates begin, your voices rise, and we show the world the power of ideas, In Africa, With Africa, For the World.
With gratitude,
Njuguna Macharia
Convener
As a leading institution, we are dedicated to shaping the future by nurturing the critical thinking, eloquence, and leadership potential of youth across East Africa and beyond.
