The Durban University of Technology (DUT), in collaboration with the BRICS Research Institute (BRICS-RI) and the University of Venda, will host the BRICS Debate Grand Finale 2025 from 26–28 November 2025 at the Steve Biko Campus in Durban.

Five leading debaters representing Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) will compete in a 10-round, one-on-one international debate series exploring global power transitions and South-South cooperation. The championship is guided by the theme: “BRICS and the Global South: A New Power Shift in the 21st Century.”

The opening Ceremony will be moderated by Mr Zwakhele Ngubane and welcoming remarks by Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation & Engagement (DUT). The official opening will be delivered by Professor Fulufhelo Netswera who is the Head of BRICS Research Institute.

The Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China and the Consul-General of the Republic of India will deliver keynote diplomatic messages on behalf of their countries.

“…Through the BRICS debates, we do not merely compete we connect,” said Professor Fulufhelo Netswera (Head of the BRICS Research Institute). This event demonstrates how South Africa and the broader BRICS community are reshaping global narratives through research, innovation, and intellectual diplomacy.”

The programme includes structured 30-minute debates, a Public Interlude titled “Humour in Diplomacy”, and a Conversation featuring Prof Fulufhelo Netswera, Prof Kedibone Phago, and Prof Siphamandla Zondi, discussing “BRICS Diplomacy and the Future of Global South Cooperation.”

The event will close on 28 November with an Awards Ceremony, recognising the BRICS-RI Debate Champion 2025, Best Speaker, Outstanding Research, and Spirit of Diplomacy. For more information, visit www.bricsri.co.za

Pictured: The event poster.

Supplied