Dear Distinguished  Colleagues

We are delighted to invite your esteemed institution to participate in the 1st AUAP International Student English Debate Championship 2026 and Awards, organized by the Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP) in collaboration with Centro Escolar University, co-hosted by Rizal Technological University and Master's Institute Development Academy and Seminary (MIDAS).

🗓 June 4–6, 2026

📍 Centro Escolar University, Manila, Philippines

This exciting international competition offers a dynamic platform for university students to enhance critical thinking, sharpen argumentation skills, and engage in meaningful debates on pressing global issues.

✨ Aims

• Develop students’ critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills

• Promote cross-cultural understanding and global citizenship

• Support AUAP’s mission to advance quality, relevance, and social impact of higher education

• Align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

🌏 What to Expect

• Competitive debate rounds on global issues

• Training workshops led by expert coaches

• Fair judging and transparent scoring

• Awards for Best Team, Best Speaker, and more

• Cultural and networking activities

🏆 Why Participate?

• Represent your university on an international stage

• Strengthen debating, public speaking, and teamwork skills

• Network with students and leaders across the Asia-Pacific

• Gain prestigious awards and global recognition

• Experience cultural exchange and lasting friendships

🎤 Debate Topics — Round 1

• Climate Justice & Equity

• Artificial Intelligence & Autonomy

• Sovereignty & Humanitarianism

• Sustainability & Food Security

• Globalization & Dependency

• Youth & Democracy

🏅 Awards & Prizes

• Team of Champions — USD 500

• 1st Runner-Up — USD 300

• 2nd Runner-Up — USD 200

• Best Male Speaker — USD 100

• Best Female Speaker — USD 100

• Best Coach — USD 100

🎖 All participants will receive certificates and trophies

🗓 Registration Deadline: May 15, 2026

⚠️ Limited to 40 teams — early registration encouraged

 

💼 Participation Packages

Package 1 — Debate Only (No Accommodation)

• AUAP Members: USD 300 per person

• Non-Members: USD 350 per person

Includes lunches, session access, certificates, and awards

Package 2 — Full Experience with Accommodation

• AUAP Members: USD 600 per person

• Non-Members: USD 650 per person

Includes hotel accommodation, airport transfers, lunches, cultural excursion, certificates, trophies, and cash awards

👥 Team Composition: 2–3 contestants and 1 coach per team

📩 Contact: debate@auap.org

✨ We look forward to welcoming you to the Philippines! ✨

Warm regards,

AUAP Secretariat