Current projects

In addition to the usual functions of the SASDB, we currently have two ongoing funded projects.

 

The New Provinces Development Project aims to develop debating in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, the Northern Cape and the North-West. In the cases of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, these provinces have recently re-established provincial debating structures (Limpopo in 2010 and Mpumalanga in 2011) that have not existed for many years. In the Free State, the SASDB has been working in co-operation with the University of the Free State to establish partnerships to develop high school debating in this province. In the case of the Northern Cape, we have recently been approached by a body which wishes to become the provincial debating board.

 

The New Areas Development Project aims to develop debating in areas that have not been reached by provincial debating structures. In particular, we aim to develop debating in major Western Cape municipalities that are far from Cape Town and Stellenbosch, and thus do not participate in the Rotary, TDL, Boland or Winelands leagues. These include George, Knysna, Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn and Worcester.

In Gauteng and in the Western Cape, members of the respective provincial debating boards have done well to establish and run successful programmes in these provinces. The ongoing work done by the Gauteng Schools Debating Board, in terms of its Debating Development Program (DDP) and the the Western Cape Schools Debating Board, with a similar project, have been exemplary of the dedication of the provincial schools debating boards and their dedication to developing debating in under-resourced schools.

The SASDB’s major goal is to maximize the reach of our debating structures, and to make sure the entire country is involved in our national system. Development for both of these projects will take the form of training workshops conducted by provincial coaches in conjunction with the SASDB and through regular coaching tours to under-resourced areas by members of the SASDB to benefit both speakers and teachers/organizers. We eventually aim to get leagues up and running, and assist with events like weekend tournaments in these areas.

 

Please contact us if you would like to get involved or would like more information!