In an atmosphere filled with youthful energy, bold ideas and a passion for change, the 8th edition of Re-Debate – the National Debate Championship for High Schools, organized by LIBURNETIK Organisation, was successfully concluded. This special edition was entirely dedicated to the topic of the Circular Economy, placing this contemporary concept at the center of youth discussions for a greener and more sustainable future for the country.
Re-Debate VIII was held within the framework of the project “EU for Circular Economy and Liveable Cities – EU4CELC”, an important initiative supported by the European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and implemented by GIZ, in cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment of Albania.
This edition included 35 teams from 21 municipalities, 66 regional debates, 70 training sessions for youth, as well as 70 debates at the school level were organized, to then culminate in an intensive week in Tirana with 16 eliminatory debates, 8 quarterfinals, 4 semifinals and 1 grand national final.
The final took place between the “28 Nëntori” school from Shkodra and the “Sami Frashëri” high school from Tirana, with a strong and well-argued confrontation, where in the end the “28 Nëntori” school was declared the winner of the eighth edition. The final of this edition did not only bring a competition for the trophy, but an in-depth confrontation of ideas on economic development models, the role of the state and citizens in the transition towards a more sustainable economy. Topics such as “Circular Economy vs. Linear Economy: Which model is more realistic in the modern world?” or “Emigration is the wisest choice for Albanian youth”, which asked the debaters to position themselves on one of the most sensitive challenges of Albanian society, highlighted not only the young people’s knowledge of economic models, but also their abilities to connect global issues with Albanian reality. Strong arguments, in-depth preparation and creative approaches gave this edition a high level of quality.
In third place was the "Petro N. Luarasi" school, while "Harry T. Fultz" took fourth place.
Pamela Pashollari, from the "Sami Frashëri" high school, Përmet, was awarded the "Best Debater of the Edition" award for her high level of presentation, clarity of thought, and ability to convince the audience and the jury.
During the closing ceremony, the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Environment, Mr. Sofjan Jaupaj, focusing on the role of debates in raising the younger generation, said:
“When you see so many young people arguing passionately about issues like the circular economy, you can't help but feel optimistic. I was part of this format myself as a debater in my youth, and I can say with conviction that the experience you get here follows you for life.”
Along the same lines, Andrea Ferrero, Head of Operations Section II at the European Union Delegation to Albania, said:
“What impresses me every year in this championship is the way young Albanians approach complex topics with a high level of responsibility. They are prepared, committed and clear about the role they want to play in society. It is more than a competition – it is a school of democracy.”
Meanwhile, Christine König, Program Manager for Circular Economy and Liveable Cities at GIZ Albania, emphasized the importance of involving young people in environmental policies:
“It is encouraging to see what an impact a well-structured debate can have on the way young people perceive the future. They not only have the capacity to discuss issues like the circular economy, but they are showing that they are ready to be an active part of the solution.”
Also present at this finale was Mr. Geron Ibrahimi, Director of the National Youth Agency (AKR), who emphasized the importance of debate as an instrument of education and training for young people.
"The Re-Debate platform remains today one of the only genuine spaces where young people are not only heard, but also learn to listen. This is one of the only formats that gives young people the tools to build critical thinking and positively influence society," he emphasized.
Re-Debate was first launched in Albania in 1995, as a joint initiative of the "Open Society for Albania" Foundation, the Ministry of Education and Peace Corps Albania, while since 2015 it has been implemented by the LIBURNETIK Organisation, becoming one of the most important national platforms for civic education of young people.
Beyond the titles and awards, this edition brought into the spotlight a new generation that thinks, analyzes, argues, and proposes new paths. A generation that needs to be heard and that, through debates like Re-Debate, is gaining the voice it deserves.
