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Kulea’tu Junior Debate Championship 2026

The Kulea’tu Junior Debate Championship 2026 is a flagship learning and leadership platform designed to nurture confident, thoughtful, and engaged young citizens. Through structured debate, children gain safe opportunities to express their ideas, explore real-life issues, and practice respectful dialogue.

Purpose

Many children in South Sudan have limited access to safe spaces that encourage critical thinking, public speaking, and open discussion. Classrooms often prioritize memorization over dialogue, and few platforms exist for children to practice peaceful civic expression. This initiative addresses that gap by creating inclusive environments where children’s voices are heard and valued.
Participants will develop strong communication and public speaking skills, improve problem-solving and critical thinking, and learn teamwork, empathy, and respect for diverse viewpoints. This experience will build confidence and introduce children to leadership through dialogue skills that support academic success and positive community engagement.

Program Structure

February 2026 – School Rounds

Teachers and trained youth volunteers will orient schools on debate rules and judging criteria. Classroom debates will then identify top student speakers to represent each school in the inter-school rounds.

March 2026 – Zonal & Semi-Finals

Juba will be divided into four zones, each hosting debates among eight schools. Top teams advance to semi-final matches, with events supported by educators, volunteer judges, and youth mentors.

Grand Finale (Late March 2026)

Finalist schools will compete in a public championship event featuring awards, recognition, and mentorship opportunities.
The day will also include a Children’s Civic Plenary and “Children’s Corner” dialogue space, allowing young participants

Expected Reach

The 2026 championship aims to

  • Host xx structured debate sessions
  • Across 32 schools
  • Engaging 12,000+ children (including debaters and active learners)

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