International Schools Speech & Debate League

The International Schools Speech & Debate League (ISSDL) is an initiative of Debate Institute Africa (DIA). It was created to give international school students a structured platform to develop oratory, debating, storytelling, and persuasive communication skills. The guiding philosophy is that oratory empowers young people to influence, inspire, and lead societal change.

🎯 Vision, Mission & Objectives

• Vision: To create a generation of articulate, confident, and socially responsible leaders with strong oratory and critical thinking skills.
• Mission: To provide an inclusive platform where students can showcase and improve through competitions, workshops, and mentorship.
• Objectives include:
  • Enhancing public speaking and debating skills.
  • Promoting critical engagement with current issues.
  • Building networks among schools.
  • Fostering leadership and confidence.
  • Opening pathways to national and international competitions.

🏆 Structure of the League

• Divisions:
  • Junior (10–14 years)
  • Senior (15–18 years)
• Tracks:
  • Debates: World Schools Debate Format (assigned and impromptu motions).
  • Public Speaking: Includes monologues, storytelling, eulogies, snap speeches, and Taskmaster’s Challenge.
• Seasons: Two per academic year, each with workshops, mentorship, and competitions.

• Senior Division:
  • Parents should not choose their children’s careers.
  • Public universities should prioritize courses addressing national development.
  • Generative AI should be used for self-medication (Finals).
• Junior Division:
  • Every school should have a Children’s Day run by kids.
  • School trips should be free.
  • Education should receive the largest share of the national budget (Finals).

🎤 Public Speaking Rounds

1. Steve Jobs Challenge – Pitch a product to African billionaires.
2. Snap Speech – 3 minutes on a surprise topic with 1 minute prep.
3. Taskmaster’s Challenge – Convince community to plant a tree every month.
4. Heartfelt Monologue – Inspire kindness through a personal story.

🏅 Awards & Recognition

• Team Awards: League Champion, Best School, Runner-ups.
• Individual Awards: Best Speaker (Junior & Senior), Most Improved Speaker, Best Debater, Impact Communicator.
• Every participant: Certificates, trophies, possible scholarships, and access to international competitions.

💵 Payment Details

• Each school delegation: 12 students (6 debaters + 6 speakers, split junior/senior), with a patron/teacher.
• Fees: UGX 100,000 per student; UGX 80,000 per observer.
• Payment Deadline: 20th September 2025 via Mobile Money.