Selection Process

Building the UAE's national debating squad is a journey that begins with opportunity and ends with excellence. Every year, we open our doors to talented students across the country, searching for those ready to represent the UAE at the World Schools Debating Championship. Our selection process is rigorous, transparent, and designed to give every applicant a fair chance to showcase their potential on the world stage.

September - October:
Open Applications

We announce an open call for applications through social media, our website, and school outreach programs. Any student aged 14+ studying full-time in the UAE is eligible to apply. No prior debate experience required.

What we require:

• Written case analysis

• Recorded debate speech

November:
Evaluation & Trials

We engage an independent panel of highly reputed coaches to review all applications. We invite shortlisted candidates to Phase 2: an intensive weekend of competitive debating.

What Phase 2 includes:

• 6 rounds of debates

• Testing in multiple speaker positions

• Independent evaluation by top WSDC circuit judges

We select the final squad of 11 debaters based on judge feedback and performance observations.

We begin weekly training sessions with personalized coaching, mentoring, and 24/7 support. We divide the squad into National and Development teams. Both receive elite-level training through May.

What we provide:

• Content-focused sessions

• Live practice debates with feedback

• Tournament participation with coach shadowing

• Continuous performance refinement

December - May:
Squad Training

Our commitment doesn't end with selection. Every squad member receives world-class training, personalized mentoring, and continuous support throughout their journey. Whether you're in the National squad or Development team, you're part of an elite program dedicated to excellence in debating.

Watch out for announcements on our channels every September.

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