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The Cambodia International Debate & Public Speaking Championship Series (CamDEBATE) is a premier platform for professional development in public speaking and debate, cultivating a healthy culture of dialogue and the sharing of different perspectives to promote and foster understanding, friendship and knowledge among youth in Cambodia.

Established in 2019 by IDP Education, a world leader in international education and student placement services, with the support from the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, Ministry of Information and the British Embassy and partnership with key institutions in Cambodia and internationally, CamDEBATE attracted over 700 applications from over 100 high schools and universities, representing 8 nationalities (Cambodian, Thai, Filipino, Malaysian, Chinese, French, American and Kazakh). The most recent CamDEBATE, the final competition round, welcomed 1,200 participants who witnessed the top 20 most talented contestants compete.

CamDEBATE aims to provide:

• An opportunity for individuals who wish to engage in debate and public speaking in English to increase their fluency and showcase their proficiency.
• An opportunity to develop important skills that benefit participants’ academic journeys, personal development and career prospects.
• An occasion to independently learn, research and form opinions on complex topics that will contribute to the development of well-rounded individuals.
• A networking opportunity for individuals from different backgrounds and nationalities.
• A platform to support the development of problem solving, critical thinking and interpersonal skills among Cambodian students and young professionals.

CamDEBATE Championship 2023

CamDEBATE 2023 attracted 525 contestants representing 8 nationalities (Cambodian, Thai, Filipino, Malaysian, Chinese, French, American and Kazakh) from over 100 schools and universities across Cambodia. It concluded with the final round in May 2023, when the 16 finalists showcased their skills in front of a packed audience of 1,200 participants.

Keang Bou KANG, a CamDEBATE Champion in the High School Debate Category, said: “It was a great learning experience for us, as we received valuable feedback and guidance from the experts. This is not just about winning or losing, but about the journey we shared and the skills we developed. We are proud of our achievements and look forward to future challenges.”

Panhavuth KONG, Runner-Up in the High School Debate Category, shared his experience. “CamDEBATE has helped us improve our speaking skills. When I first joined the competition with my team, I never thought we would make it this far, so it’s been a really great experience overall.”

British Ambassador to Cambodia, H.E. Dominic Williams, who sat on the judging panel for the finale, commended the contestants on their hard work and dedication. “I’ve been really impressed with the quality of the debate today. Young Cambodian people have such amazing skills and capacities. When I look at these people, they research their topics clearly and they’ve come with well-reasoned arguments, and they use some clever rhetorical devices to grab the attention of the audience. What’s most impressive of all is that people are doing it in English! This isn’t their first language. I’ve been blown away by the quality of the young people who have been presenting today.”

The 8 champions were each awarded a 2-week study tour to the United Kingdom hosted by Stafford House (part of CATS Global Schools), one-year scholarships to study at ACE, trophies and medals. Other prizes included tablets, bicycles and gift packs. 

Thinking about joining CamDEBATE next year?

Applications for the CamDEBATE 2024 competition open in early 2024. For more info and upcoming CamDEBATE events, join the CamDEBATE Telegram Channel!

If you wish the CamDEBATE team to contact you via calling or email to when applications are open, fill out your info HERE!