MUSCAT: The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, in collaboration with the Oman Debate Centre, has launched the 8th edition of the National Debating Championship, a key initiative aimed at enhancing the art of persuasion, critical thinking and constructive dialogue among young people.
The championship reflects Oman Vision 2040 goals of youth empowerment and fostering a culture of effective discourse. By equipping participants with public speaking and analytical skills, the programme prepares them to engage meaningfully with national, regional and global issues.
Training sessions begin today, starting with the fundamentals of debating. The second session on Tuesday will focus on argumentation and refutation, while the third will cover case analysis and presentation techniques.
This year’s championship introduces a new format for the qualifying stages, divided across three major stations:
April 11 at the Arab Open University (Muscat Governorate), for participants from Muscat, Al Dakhiliyah, Al Batinah South, Al Sharqiyah North and Al Sharqiyah South.
April 18 at the University of Buraimi (Al Buraimi Governorate), for participants from Al Batinah North, Al Dhahirah, Al Buraimi and Musandam.
April 21 at Dhofar University (Dhofar Governorate), for teams from Dhofar and Al Wusta.
School-level qualifiers will be held virtually to ensure broader participation.
Hilal bin Saif al Siyabi, Director-General of the Directorate-General of Youth at the Ministry, described the event as a cornerstone in shaping eloquent, thoughtful youth, capable of presenting informed viewpoints with clarity and respect. He emphasised the growing level of competition and participation year after year.
Nasser bin Humaid al Hinai, CEO of the Oman Debate Centre, echoed these sentiments, stating that the championship aims to cultivate a generation of future leaders through structured debate and intensive training.
Following the preliminary rounds, 272 debaters from 68 teams - including clubs and educational institutions - will advance to the finals. The champions will go on to represent the Sultanate of Oman in future international competitions.
Registration is open to teams from schools, universities and clubs across Oman, further embedding debate as a vital educational and developmental tool.
— ONA
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