National Speech and Debate Education Day is celebrated annually on the first Friday of March and this year will be marked on March 6. The purpose of the day is to prepare students to be better at public speaking and debates. Did you know that debates can help students develop skills in research, critical thinking, organization, communication, and persuasion? Yes, speech and debate are essential academic exercises that should be provided for all students across the world. Having a day specifically dedicated to equipping students with these skills is a sure way to prepare them for their future lives.
History of National Speech and Debate Education Day
National Speech and Debate Education Day is all about teaching students the research, speaking, and problem-solving skills they need to succeed in their careers. Public speaking and debates greatly support intellectual growth while shaping children’s personalities, by polishing both their interpersonal and intrapersonal skills. This day not only encourages children to grow and develop themselves to learn speech and debate skills; it also encourages students and the community to show the speech coaches and teachers support for their dedication, hard work, and perseverance.
National Speech and Debate Education Day was created by the National Speech and Debate Association (N.S.D.A.) to foster and celebrate the positive impact of speech and debate activities on communities, students, and schools. The association is the U.S.’s largest interscholastic organization, servicing middle school, high school, and college students.
According to the creators of this day, teaching students the art of public speaking and debate can lead to higher test scores and a rise in college acceptance. It also prepares students for college, the workforce, and the next stage of their lives. It is not just a serious and important activity; it can be a fun activity for students too. Practicing this will lead to lucrative careers in various fields, including academia, politics, journalism, and law. So, whether on National Speech and Debate Education Day or any day, let’s take up this mission to create future leaders through proper training and education.
National Speech and Debate Education Day timeline
The U.S. Senate passes the first resolution declaring March 15 as National Speech and Debate Education Day.
The Senate passes another resolution declaring the day to be March 3.
More than 1.5 million speech and debate alumni celebrate National Speech and Debate Education Day.
Educational institutions across the U.S. start giving importance to debate education.
National Speech and Debate Education Day FAQs
How many schools are there in N.S.D.A.?
The N.S.D.A. has more than 3,500 member schools for which it provides infrastructure for speech and debate competitions.
Why is debate important?
Debate participation promotes problem-solving and innovative thinking skills. It also helps students to foster healthy relationships.
Is speech and debate good for college?
Speech and debate skills can help with several aspects of transitioning to college, including getting admission to one.
How to Observe National Speech and Debate Education Day
Organize a Debate
The best way to celebrate National Speech and Debate Education Day is by organizing a friendly debate in your family or your neighborhood. Or, if you wish to go a little further, set up a debate club.
Teach someone how to debate
What’s better than debating on the National Speech and Debate Education Day? Teaching your dear ones how to debate. It could be your son/daughter, mom/dad, lover, or neighbor.
Share your favorite debate story
If you’re a master debater or a good public speaker, share some of the interesting things that happened during such events. Be sure to inspire your audience to develop the skill.
5 Intriguing Facts About Public Speaking
Being bad at this skill is costly
A fear of public speaking can impact your career and can even cut your wages by 10%.
Delivery is more important than content
In a public speech, your delivery matters more than your content.
Talking less is very important
Taking less has proven to be more effective in engaging your audience.
Facts and figures are your friends
Adding facts and figures to your presentation can increase audience retention.
The truth about presidential debates
Research shows that voters find the debates useful, but not determinative.
Why National Speech and Debate Education Day is Important
It increases our skills set
Debate and public speaking are not just about speaking. The exercise promotes research skills, raises our I.Q., sparks creativity, and increases problem-solving skills — ultimately making us better.
It brings people together
Although the ultimate goal of debate is to win over others, it is the whole experience of debate and public speaking that is significant. It can truly bring people together.
It's an important skill to harness
In an era, where children are addicted to smartphones and social media, National Speech and Debate Education helps promote the importance of public speaking and debates. It's a skill that, once perfected, will place you ahead of many others.
National Speech and Debate Education Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | March 1 | Friday |
| 2025 | March 7 | Friday |
| 2026 | March 6 | Friday |
