The Panama Canal officially welcomed the 2025 World Schools Debating Championship (WSDC), reinforcing its role as a platform for global dialogue, education, and youth engagement. The event brought together more than 550 young participants from 59 countries to debate issues related to society, economics, politics, the environment, and other topics of international relevance.

The opening ceremony was held on July 24, 2025, at the Ascanio Arosemena Training Center Auditorium, with the participation of national and international authorities, including cabinet ministers, institutional representatives, and delegates from multilateral organizations. According to the Panama Canal Authority, the championship marks the beginning of a series of activities that position Panama as a center for critical thinking and intercultural dialogue.

The 2025 edition of the WSDC is being co-organized by the Panama Canal and the Panamanian Debate Association (ASPADE), a nonprofit organization focused on empowering young people through debate as a tool for educational and social transformation. During the opening event, Minister for Canal Affairs José Ramón Icaza emphasized that, just as the Canal connects oceans and continents, the championship connects people and ideas through dialogue. Canal Administrator Ricaurte Vásquez Morales also highlighted Panama’s historic role as a meeting point for cultures and perspectives from around the world.

The event’s opening program also featured cultural performances and remarks highlighting Panama’s commitment to education, youth leadership, and cultural diplomacy. The Panama Canal said the championship reflects the country’s broader commitment to promoting knowledge exchange and building bridges through constructive debate.