Hello everyone,
We are excited to share that one of our two Afghan female debate teams won the first round at the Harvard Debate UKTOC International (24–25 January 2026). The teams competed under challenging circumstances, as some teammates who faced a power outage and were unable to participate at the last minute.
This outcome was beyond our initial expectations, but it was made possible by the hard work and determination of the Afghan girls, and we want to celebrate this achievement with everyone. We believe that winning this first round will boost the confidence of many young Afghan women in their own potential and abilities.
Wishing you continued success, with lots of confidence and joy.
We would like to express our gratitude to Dr. Tripp Rebrovick, Debate Coach at Harvard College and Director of the Harvard Debate Council; Mr. Dave Arnett, Director of Debate at the University of Kentucky; and Mr. Gabriel Lewis, International Outreach Coordinator for Speech and Debate at the University of Kentucky, for their kind support.
Warm regards,
Empowering Afghan Girls & Young Women through Public Forum Debate
(An initiative founded by Vietnam Public Forum Academy)
and Afghans for Progressive Thinking (APT)
