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Area 2071
Dubai Future Foundation
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AIDEN Debate Challenge
About the Challenge
Debate exciting and controversial issues around AI ethics and society in teams of 3.
Ages: 12-17, divided by age groups.
Timeline
Round 1 - Virtual - 25 October 2025
Round 2 - In Person - 26 October 2025
HP Innovation Garage, Dubai Technology & Entrepreneurship Campus
Cost: AED 330 / team
Register
What if AI could predict crimes before they happen? Should machines have a say in who gets elected? Can AI decide your future better than you can?
Big questions. Big stakes. And your chance to prove you can think faster, argue sharper, and outsmart the future.
The AIDEN Student Debate Challenge is about winning arguments that matter, competing against the best, and standing out where it counts. Whether you're aiming for Ivy League admissions or just want to sharpen your edge, this challenge pushes you to think critically, speak persuasively, and dominate the debate floor.
Register today
What's in it for you?
Win Prizes & Exclusive Opportunities
Compete for exciting rewards and opportunities with our industry partners.
Level-up your Public Speaking & Future-Ready Skills
Get judged by real lawyers and tech leaders - no messing around.
Boost your University Portfolio & Make Connections
Get an elite debate experience & connect with mentors
Program Agenda
Day 1
— AI Foundations & Industry Impact
What is AI? How is it transforming industries? Your child will explore the latest AI applications and the revolutionary ways it's shaping the world.
Day 2
— Debate AI Ethics & Future Challenges
A chance to think critically and debate topics like AI ethics, privacy, and its impact on society. Students will sharpen their communication and leadership skills through structured discussions.
Day 3
— Problem Solving & Real AI Projects
Your child will develop innovative AI solutions to real-world challenges, working in teams to create projects that can be included in their university portfolio.
Day 4
— Public Speaking & Leadership Development
The final day is all about presenting their AI projects. Students will learn to command attention, speak with confidence, and position themselves as future leaders in tech.
AI on Trial: The AIDEN Debate Challenge
Win Arguments That Matter.
Round 1 - virtual - 25 October 2025
Round 2 - in person - 26 October 2025
HP Innovation Garage, Dubai Technology & Entrepreneurship Campus
Cost: AED 330 / team
Register
Debate high-stakes, real-world topics like AI in elections and predictive policing.
Get judged by real lawyers and tech leaders—no messing around.
Make connections that matter—impress industry pros who can open doors.
Boost your university applications with an elite debate experience.
Register today
FAQ
What is the structure of the Karl Popper debate?
The debate consists of two teams, Affirmative and Negative, with three speakers each. It includes six-minute opening speeches, five-minute rebuttals from each speaker, and concludes with a five-minute open crossfire. Teams have 15 minutes preparation time during debates.
What are the speaker roles?
Speaker 1 introduces the team's main arguments.
Speaker 2 expands these arguments.
Speaker 3 summarizes the debate and concludes with a strong final statement.
What about topic selection for Round 1?
You will receive a list of potential debate topics a couple of weeks in advance. On the debate day, the organizers will assign you your topic from this list. Teams will have 15 minutes to prepare once the selected topic is announced.
How can teams advance to Round 2?
Teams that win their Round 1 debate will advance to the in-person Round 2 finals. Success depends on effectively presenting arguments, refuting opponents, and demonstrating strong teamwork.
How should we prepare for the in-person debate (Round 2)?
Practice good eye contact, natural gestures, clear speech, and professional attire. Develop discreet communication techniques with your team during the debate and bring notes, use flow paper, pens, and timers.
Are there different age groups in the competition?
Yes, the competition is divided into two age categories: one for students aged 11-13, and another for high school students aged 14-17.
Will there be preparation materials provided?
Yes, AIDEN will send additional resources a week before the event, including materials about AI and debate fundamentals, to assist in your preparation.
