KNUST Debate Society (KDS)

INTRODUCTION

THE KNUST DEBATE SOCIETY (KDS) is an internationally recognized, student-led intellectual community known for holding the highest number of national and Pan-African debate championships. Since its establishment, the Society has focused on developing world-class thinkers and speakers while using debate as a tool for social impact. The society empowers young people to engage critically with real societal issues and shape public discourse.

ACHIEVEMENTS

The Society has built a legacy of excellence on both national and international stages. Some of its most notable achievements include:

• Seven-time champions of the Ghana Universities Debate Championship (GUDC)

• Four-time champions of the Pan-African Universities Debate Championship (PACE)

• Two-time World Universities Debate Championship (WUDC) runners-up

• Winners of over 200 open debate trophies across various competitions

1. STRUCTURE & MEMBERSHIP

1.1 Executive Body

KDS is led by an executive team responsible for training, organization of internal competitions, facilitating participation in external competitions, and administration. The team comprises;

1.2 Membership

Membership is open to students from all fields of study. Interested students may join the Society by visiting our WhatsApp recruitment page via

https://forms.gle/a2hAGy52DWd3pdZ79 and signing up to become a member.

Alternatively, prospective members may also join through an introduction by existing members of the Society.

A formal orientation and inauguration will be conducted for all new members. All new members are taken through a semester’s worth of debate and public speaking training, culminating in an induction tournament for new debates, thereby ushering them into the society.

Key Benefits of the Debate Society

• Public Speaking & Confidence

Members develop clarity, confidence, and composure when speaking before audiences, panels, and judges.

• Critical Thinking & Research Skills

Debaters learn how to analyze complex issues, construct logical arguments, and evaluate opposing viewpoints using evidence.

• Networking Opportunities

The society connects members with students from other institutions, adjudicators, professionals, and thought leaders through competitions and events.

• Strong Alumni Network

The Society is supported by a strong alumni network, including Julia M. Kobina (Board Chairperson, NYA; Founder, KDS), Kelly Smith Amankwah (Bank of America, UK), and Erasmus Sebefia (Bank of America, UK). Alumni remain actively involved, providing mentorship, career guidance, and professional opportunities across academia, law, policy, media, and leadership.

• Leadership & Teamwork

Members gain leadership experience through executive roles, motion preparation, team strategy, and collaborative training.

• Competitive Exposure

Participation in inter-university, national, and international competitions builds resilience, adaptability, and global exposure.

• Academic & Career Advantage

Skills gained in debating translate directly to success in interviews, presentations, advocacy, writing, and professional communication.

• Personal Growth & Discipline

Debating fosters discipline, time management, intellectual curiosity, and the confidence to engage respectfully in difficult conversations.

3. Key projects for 2026

RP Baffour Freshmen debate: tournament meant to usher in new debaters

6 internal debate Comps and 1 public speaking Comps: meant to foster competition and keep the skills of members sharp

KDS socials and hangouts: a leisure programme meant for networking and socializing, music, food, and drinks all provided

KDS Outreach: a community engagement project where KDS seems to give back to our community via a humanitarian project yet to be announced for 2026

KDS week celebration: series of activities and side quests / competitions (cooking challenges, treasure hunt, picnic, etc.)

Ghana Universities Debate Championships (hosted in UMAT Sunyani)

Pan African Universities’ debate championships (hosted in Nigeria)

World Universities’ Debate Championships (Ottawa, Canada)

The Society equips its members with strong public speaking, critical thinking, and research skills while creating valuable networking opportunities through inter-university and international engagements. With an active alumni network that provides mentorship and career guidance, members gain exposure beyond the classroom. The society also nurtures leadership, teamwork, and confidence, preparing students for academic excellence, professional success, and impactful civic engagement.

4. CONTACT INFO

Mail: debateknust.kds@gmail.com

Instagram: @debateknust

Twitter(X): @debateknust

TikTok : @debateknust

Facebook : @debateknust

Contact: +233 (0) 500040510 [President]