SEDIBENG.- Following the success of the inaugural event, 2026 marks the 2nd Annual Vaal Italian Podcast High School Debate Competition.

The event will be held at the Vereeniging Civic Theatre in Vereeniging on June 16.

The organisers, The Vaal Italian Podcast team, said that this year, the initiative has expanded beyond the Vaal Region, with the organising team extending invitations to schools in other provinces, including from Ditlalemeso Turfloop High School, to join in commemorating Youth Day through debate and intellectual exchange.

Local schools will be participating

Local schools that will be participating this year include Botebo-Tsebo, Jordan, Lekoa Shandu, Thandu Kwazi and General Smuts, to mention but a few.

The Vaal Italian Podcast team warmly welcomes community members, stakeholders, and potential sponsors to be part of this impactful celebration. Contributions of any kind will assist in growing the competition and ensuring a memorable and meaningful experience for the students and youth.

The Vaal Italian Podcast High School Debate Competition was established in 2025 as an educational and community-driven initiative aimed at empowering young people through intellectual engagement.

The event brings together different learners

The first annual competition was successfully hosted on 16 June 2025 (Youth Day) at Sedibeng TVET College in Sebokeng. The event brought together learners from various high schools across the Vaal Region to engage in meaningful debates that promote critical thinking, public speaking, and awareness of social issues.

The inaugural event received generous support from several sponsors, including Rhythm Lounge, Red Square, MMP Security, Diraro Groups, Sedibeng TVET College (under Mr Dosto Noge), and Motseng Deli Food, among others.

A special contribution was made by Rhythm Lounge, which sponsored a cash prize of R10,000 awarded to the winning school.

The competition results were as follows:

1st Place: Lekoa Shandu Secondary School

2nd Place: Riverside High School

3rd Place: Botebo-Tsebo Secondary School

The purpose of the competition is to reclaim Youth Day

The organisers said that the core purpose of the competition is to honour and reclaim the significance of Youth Day (South Africa) by placing it back into the hands of its rightful owners—the youth.

“Through this initiative, students are educated about historical events, cultural identity, and the importance of active citizenship within their communities and beyond. The programme also serves as a platform to develop future leaders, encouraging learners to express themselves, think critically, and engage with issues that affect society.”

For details on the event call 069 717 3855, entry is free.