Durban University of Technology (DUT) made history by hosting the first BRICS Debate Championship Grand Finale, becoming the first university in South Africa to stage this prestigious international event. The championship marked a significant milestone for higher education in the country and firmly positioned DUT as a platform for global intellectual engagement and dialogue.
The event brought together top national debate champions from across the BRICS nations, reinforcing DUT’s growing reputation as a hub for academic excellence and international collaboration. The championship was hosted in partnership with the BRICS Research Institute and the University of Venda.
Distinguished guests at the BRICS Debate Championship Grand Finale.
Five national champions represented their respective countries. Brazil was represented by Mr Rodrigo Ferreira Barros from the National School of Public Administration. Russia was represented by Mr Vaniashev Artem Sergeevich from RUDN University. India was represented by Ms Riddima Pant from Delhi Technological University. China was represented by Mr Zhisheng Wang from Zhejiang University. South Africa was represented by Mr Thabo Rakuba from North West University.
These exceptional young scholars competed in a three round, one on one international debate series focused on global power transitions and South South cooperation. The championship unfolded under the central theme, “BRICS and the Global South: A New Power Shift in the 21st Century.”
On Day Two of the championship, the atmosphere was electric, tense and intellectually charged. The first round saw India eliminated, narrowing the field to four debaters who continued to compete fiercely for a place in the semi finals. Each participant delivered compelling arguments representing their respective nations, creating an environment rich in ideas, strategy and diplomacy.
Following the semi final round, China and Brazil were eliminated, leaving the two strongest contenders to advance to the final stage of the competition.
After the finalists were announced, a prestigious Gala Dinner was held at the Edward Hotel. The evening celebrated the remarkable journey of the debaters, honoured their intellectual excellence and acknowledged the institutions and partners who made the inaugural BRICS Debate Championship Grand Finale possible. It was an occasion of reflection, recognition and celebration of the young leaders shaping global discourse.
Deputy Vice Chancellor Research and Postgraduate Studies at the University of Venda and Head of the BRICS Research Institute, Professor Fulufhelo Netswera, warmly welcomed distinguished guests, finalists, partners and delegates to the Gala Dinner. He acknowledged the hard work and brilliance demonstrated throughout the championship, applauded the collaborative efforts that made the event possible and highlighted the importance of fostering global dialogue among emerging scholars from BRICS nations. Professor Netswera also expressed gratitude to DUT for hosting this historic championship and emphasised the importance of strengthening academic partnerships to advance research.
Mr Thabo Dikgale, Acting Director International Relations and Partnerships at the University of Venda, highlighted the importance of acknowledging and embracing the differences that exist within BRICS nations and among individuals. He stressed that progress is only possible through continued dialogue, collaboration and appreciation of diverse knowledge and ideas. He commended the debaters for their intellectual courage and the spirit of unity they displayed throughout the competition.
“This championship reminded us that our differences are not barriers; they are pathways to richer conversations, deeper understanding and stronger partnerships. The friendships formed here will outlast the competition and continue to shape the global leaders you are becoming,” he said.
Professor Kedibone Phago from North West University, who also hosted the South African National Championship, reflected on the success of the inaugural championship. He highlighted the exceptional quality of debate and the spirit of unity that developed among participants. Professor Phago pointed to economic collaboration, cultural diversity and people mobility as central themes shaping the future of BRICS.
He also addressed criticisms often directed at BRICS regarding internal divisions, noting that the role of participants is to reshape and reimagine what the future of the partnership can become. “The future of BRICS does not depend on perfect alignment; it depends on the courage of those who choose dialogue over division and cooperation over competition,” he said.
The Director of the International Office at DUT, Dr Laven Samuels, expressed gratitude to the organisers, judges and participants for their dedication and collaboration. He highlighted South Africa’s success at the G20 Summit, noting the country’s warmth, efficiency and ability to foster meaningful international engagement.
“What made this event truly special was not just the discussions or competitions, but the warmth and generosity of the people hosting it. I hope everyone leaves with a lasting memory of the positivity and spirit we experienced here,” Dr Samuels added.
On Day Three, Mr Vaniashev Artem Sergeevich from RUDN University in Russia was crowned the 2025 BRICS RI Debate Champion. He was followed by first runner up Mr Thabo Rakuba from North West University and second runner up Mr Rodrigo Ferreira Barros from the National School of Public Administration in Brazil.
Pictured: Mr Rodrigo Ferreira Barros, Mr Vaniashev Artem Sergeevich, Ms Riddima Pant, Mr Zhisheng Wang and Mr Thabo Rakuba with Deputy Vice Chancellor Research and Postgraduate Studies Professor Fulufhelo Netswera at the BRICS Debate Championship Grand Finale.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
