The World Universities Debating Championship (WUDC) 2025, held in the vibrant city of Panama City, Panama, from December 27, 2024, to January 4, 2025, witnessed an extraordinary performance by the Indonesian team. Representing Bina Nusantara University (BINUS), Jennifer Marcellyn Cen and Rachel Chen emerged as champions in the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) category. Alongside this victory, Jennifer achieved individual glory by securing the EFL Finals Best Speaker title, earning the distinguished Boby Andika Ruitang Award for her exceptional debating prowess.
The tournament, widely regarded as the pinnacle of global academic debates, attracted 229 teams representing 111 universities across 40 nations. Jennifer and Rachel’s journey to the championship was marked by intense competition, culminating in a final showdown against teams from Rosario University (Colombia), the University of Sao Paulo (Brazil), and Instituto Tecnológico de Monterrey (Mexico). Their victory not only underscored their talent but also highlighted the growing recognition of Indonesia’s capabilities on the international stage.
Upon their triumphant return, the Indonesian delegation was greeted with pride and admiration at Soekarno Hatta International Airport. Maria Veronica Irene Herdjiono, Head of the National Achievement Center (Puspresnas), personally welcomed the team and applauded their success as a beacon of Indonesia’s potential. She emphasized the significance of their achievement as a reflection of the nation’s ability to compete globally when equipped with the right guidance and determination. Her words echoed a sentiment of optimism, recognizing the victory as a testament to the power of hard work and resilience.
The team’s preparation for the WUDC was meticulously orchestrated, beginning with their participation in the 2024 National University Debating Championship (NUDC). This platform served as a launchpad for their selection, followed by rigorous training sessions designed to enhance their skills and confidence. Joining BINUS in representing Indonesia was a team from the Christian University of Indonesia (UKI), featuring equally dedicated debaters who added depth to the country’s delegation.
Guided by mentors such as Tengku Omar Azfar Haqqani from the English Speaking Union (ESU) at Padjadjaran University, the training focused on comprehensive skill development. It went beyond mere debating techniques, aiming to instill confidence and adaptability in navigating the complexities of international competition. This holistic approach proved instrumental in preparing the team to face the formidable challenges of the WUDC.
Reflecting on their journey, Rachel Chen highlighted the obstacles they overcame, particularly the challenge of competing against teams from countries where English is a primary language. She credited their success to meticulous preparation and unwavering determination, viewing the experience as a stepping stone for future achievements. Her words resonated with a sense of gratitude and ambition, embodying the spirit of resilience that defined their campaign.
The WUDC’s format, rooted in the British Parliamentary style, demands exceptional analytical and rhetorical skills, with participants navigating nine rigorous preliminary rounds before entering the elimination stages. Jennifer and Rachel’s triumph not only added to Indonesia’s accolades but also signified the nation’s growing stature in global academic arenas. Their achievement serves as a source of inspiration, reflecting the limitless potential of Indonesian youth in shaping the future of intellectual excellence.
