The highly anticipated event, scheduled for September 20–21, will bring together students from Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, along with their peers from Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar for the fourth edition of the Karume Inter-Schools Debate Championship Series (KIDCS) 2025.
Dar es Salaam. Representatives from student bodies across East Africa are set to convene in Tanzania for a series of discussions, debates, cultural performances, and art exhibitions aimed at strengthening regional ties and fostering friendships among participating nations.
The highly anticipated event, scheduled for September 20–21, will bring together students from Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, along with their peers from Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar for the fourth edition of the Karume Inter-Schools Debate Championship Series (KIDCS) 2025.
Mr. Ndanyungu Omary, the Secretary General of KIDCS, stated that this year’s championship is expected to attract more than 300 participants from across the region. Competitors will be divided into junior (primary school) and senior (secondary school) categories, covering ages between 8 and 18.
“The competition will feature debates, public speaking, and spelling bee contests, with winners receiving trophies, medals, and certificates. Beyond competition, the event serves as a platform to nurture critical thinking, communication skills, and civic engagement among young learners,” he said.
The theme for this year is “Youth, Equity, and the Future of Civic Engagement in Tanzania.” Omary noted that past participants have secured scholarships abroad.
“Our event empowers students through extracurricular activities and prepares them for greater opportunities,” he added.
Mr Ramadhani Juma Bihigwa, the Project Chairman of KIDCS, emphasised the broader vision behind the initiative.
“This is not just a competition; it is a platform to cultivate confident, responsible, and visionary young leaders who will help shape the future of Tanzania and Africa,” he remarked.
For Al-Irshaad International School, the event is both an honour and a responsibility. School representative Mr Hafidh Issa said: “We are honoured to host this prestigious event. By welcoming students from across Tanzania and East Africa, we are not only supporting academic excellence but also contributing to the development of a generation of young leaders who will lead with knowledge, values, and confidence.”
Meanwhile, the KIDCS Committee has issued a call for support from corporate partners, government institutions, and community stakeholders to help sponsor talented students, particularly those from public schools who might otherwise be unable to participate.
Since its founding in 2022, the Karume Inter-Schools Debate Championship Series has quickly grown into one of the region’s most respected platforms for youth empowerment, inspiring young people to excel both academically and socially.
