The China Schools Speech & Debate Association (CSSDA) is an informal volunteer network of educators and coaches in China who collaborate to support student participation in international debate events.
Founded by a coalition of educators, coaches, league organizers, and institutional partners, CSSDA strives to offer transparent and inclusive opportunities for students in China to participate in globally recognized speech and debate competitions. CSSDA does not hold official status or represent any government body.
We are guided by the values of:
The World Schools Debating Championships (WSDC) is the world’s most prestigious international high school debating tournament. Each year, national teams from over 70 countries participate in a week-long championship featuring the World Schools Debating format, a unique blend of British Parliamentary and Australian 3-on-3 style debate. Topics cover global issues in politics, economics, ethics, and society.
WSDC is more than a competition—it’s a global gathering that fosters diplomacy, intellectual rigor, and cross-cultural friendships.
www.wsdcdebating.org
WSDC on Wikipedia
Announcing Team China WSDC 2025 – Panama
We are proud to introduce the five students selected through the CSSDA volunteer-led process to participate as the China delegation at the 2025 World Schools Debating Championships in Panama.
Note: “Team China” refers to student delegations informally coordinated by CSSDA for participation in international competitions. CSSDA has no formal endorsement from any national institution. Following a rigorous national selection process hosted by the China Schools Speech & Debate Association (CSSDA), these debaters emerged as the top candidates from a wide field of talented applicants across China.
Representing Shanghai, Shenzhen, and beyond, these students bring a wealth of experience, passion, and excellence to Team China. We look forward to seeing them compete on the world stage and uphold the values of integrity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
Congratulations to Bobby Liu, Crystal Liao, Javier Leng, Leah Del Fierro, and Sophia Gong—Team China 2025!
2025–2026 School Year Selection Process (WSDC):
In accordance with the CSSDA Constitution, Team China for WSDC 2026 will be selected through a two-tiered, open, and merit-based system organized by the China Schools Speech & Debate Association (CSSDA).
Coaches and selectors will be appointed through a transparent application process overseen by the CSSDA Board. Students will be evaluated based on live trial performance, scrimmage results, and demonstrated commitment throughout the training period.
For inquiries or to express interest: chinaschoolsdebate@gmail.com
To learn more: www.chinaschoolsdebate.com
The World Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships (WIDPSC) is a prestigious global tournament for individual high school public speakers. Students compete across five events:
WIDPSC is a unique opportunity for students to showcase a range of speaking talents, engage with international peers, and experience world-class adjudication and cultural exchange.
www.widpsc.org
WIDPSC on Wikipedia
WIDPSC 2026 Selection:
Questions or interest in joining or coaching? Email: chinaschoolsdebate@gmail.com
CSSDA activities are coordinated by a group of volunteers—educators, alumni, and parents—who contribute time and expertise to support speech and debate education. CSSDA has no legal status and does not operate as a registered organization in China.
The Board oversees team selection, safeguards student well-being, and ensures a fair and transparent process. Board members are volunteers committed to building a strong debate culture in China.
Interested in joining? Contact us at chinaschoolsdebate@gmail.com to learn more about board membership and future nomination cycles.
Interested in joining the Board?
Reach out to chinaschoolsdebate@gmail.com
CSSDA welcomes adult involvement in many forms. We are currently recruiting:
Alumni of Team China and members of the wider WSDC and WIDPSC communities are especially encouraged to get involved.
To express interest in a coaching or judging role, email
chinaschoolsdebate@gmail.com
Becoming a world-class speaker and debater takes time, mentorship, and practice. This section will soon provide links to:
Coming Soon
There’s no better way to grow as a speaker than to compete! This page will soon feature:
Whether you’re a beginner or aspiring national team member, we’ll help you find the right event.
Coming Soon
Interested to learn more? Reach out to chinaschoolsdebate@gmail.com
Disclaimer: CSSDA is a volunteer-based coalition. It is not a registered legal entity and does not operate as a business, nonprofit, or educational institution. All programs are independently coordinated by volunteers. Participation in activities does not constitute a contractual relationship.