Resources

Endorsement Conditions
Tab Rules
Local Adjudication Scale
WSDC 2023 briefing
Local Speaker Tabs

FAQs


Organizing a debate tournament is a complex task, and we recommend getting the aid of a person with prior tournament organizing experience in order to ensure a smooth event. The process can be streamlined into to a sequence of structured steps as outlined below. You can find a step-by-step guide on how to organize a tournament here.

  1. Obtain Permissions

    Seek the necessary permissions from relevant authorities within your educational institution to host an event. Obtain official clearance to organize the tournament on your school premises.

  2. Request Endorsement

    Initiate the process by sending a formal email to our organization, requesting endorsement for the tournament. In your email, kindly provide details about the scale of the tournament and the proposed dates for the event. Please note that tournaments should not be organized on public holidays or on consecutive weekends. If a tournament by another institution is already scheduled to be held the week prior or following your proposed dates kindly consider rescheduling.

  3. Member School Invitations

    Extend formal invitations to all member schools associated with The Debaters' Council. The emails can be found in the DC schools registry. The school representative in the Tournament Coordination WhatsApp group is requested to share the invitation and registration link within the WhatsApp group as well.

  4. Inviting Adjudicators

    Extend invitations to experienced and qualified adjudicators for the tournament. While institutional judges undoubtedly contribute valuable expertise, we emphasize the importance of broadening the judging pool to ensure robustness and avoid over-dependence. Furthermore, it is important to establish a Core Adjudication Panel (CAP) which usually consists of 1-3 veteran adjudicators. The CAP is responsible for allocating judges, solving disputes, setting motions, issuing motion clarifications, and other such tasks.

  5. Submission of Motions

    Submit the proposed debate motions to the DC Motions Committee for approval by sending an email to dcmotionscommittee@gmail.com . These motions should be submitted at least two weeks prior to the scheduled tournament.

  6. Tabulation Process

    Utilize Tabbycat for tabulation throughout the tournament. It is imperative to adhere rigorously to all regulations and guidelines set forth by The Debaters' Council at all stages of tabulation.

    Registration form
  • We require a formal letter expressing your club's intent to join the Debaters' Council. This letter should be signed by the Teacher in charge of the debating club or another relevant authority within the school.
  • An annual membership fee of 4000 LKR must be paid. This fee supports the activities and initiatives facilitated by the Debaters' Council.
  • Additionally, kindly provide us with the name and contact number of a designated person for WhatsApp communication (ideally the team captain). This individual will serve as a primary point of contact for any quick updates, announcements, and coordination.
  • Once your submission is received and the membership fee is processed, your school will officially become part of the Debaters' Council network
  • Each year the opportunity to apply for the national team pool is given to debaters. Submit your debate CV highlighting your personal achievements as a speaker and your debate experience.
  • Shortlisted applicants may again be called in for a selection process if deemed necessary.
  • If chosen for the pool, you embark on specialized training. This training refines your skills while also presenting another opportunity for evaluation. The culmination of this training initiates the final selection phase, determining the composition of the national team and development squad
  • Active participation in tournaments provides invaluable hands-on experience and exposure to various debating styles. Engaging in debates sharpens your critical thinking and communication abilities.
  • Prioritize research and learning. In-depth knowledge on diverse subjects not only enriches your arguments but also equips you to engage in nuanced discussions.
  • Leverage the wealth of online resources. Platforms like YouTube offer numerous videos focusing on debating strategies and also recordings of debates by skilled debaters.
  • For more resources, we encourage you to explore the following link: Debating Resource Compilation
  • Another avenue is seeking guidance from a seasoned coach. A coach provides personalized feedback, identifies areas for improvement, and refines your techniques. We are more than happy to assist you in connecting with skilled coaches.