PAUDC 2025 Harnessing AI for Sustainable Development in Africa [1- 8 December 2025]
PAUDC 2025 Harnessing AI for Sustainable Development in Africa [1- 8 December 2025]
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Core Adjudication Panel

The adjudication panel for PAUDC 2025 will feature a diverse group of seasoned debaters and adjudicators from across Africa, ensuring a fair, balanced, and robust judging process. This esteemed panel includes individuals with extensive experience in the debate circuit, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the tournament. Here’s a closer look at the key members of the core adjudication panel:

Debate Chief Adjudicators

Debate Chief Adjudicators for PAUDC 2025Umar Buckus (South Africa) is a seasoned debater and adjudicator with extensive experience in international debating competitions.

A Wits alumnus holding 2 degrees from the institution, He has served in key roles at multiple events, including the 2021 Pretoria Parley Invitational (PPIV), where he was a Deputy Chief Adjudicator (DCA).

His involvement in debating spans nearly a decade, and he has contributed as a forum chair and coach, including at Dulwich College

 

 

Debate Chief Adjudicators for PAUDC 2025Elisha Owusu Akyaw (Ghana) is a prominent Ghanaian debater and adjudicator with extensive experience in international and Pan-African debating circuits. He first made his mark in 2017 during his time at Presbyterian Boys Secondary School, which led to his selection for Ghana's national debate team. Elisha quickly gained prominence, reaching the finals of the Pan-African Universities Debate Championship (PAUDC) within just three months of entering the University of Ghana. Since then, he has continued to build on his success.

In 2022, Elisha won the prestigious Best Speaker award at PAUDC and made history as one of the first African teams to reach the finals of the World Universities Debating Championship (WUDC) in 2023. He currently serves as the coach of Ghana’s World Schools Debating Championship (WSDC) team and is a member of the WSDC Board of Directors, highlighting his leadership and ongoing contribution to developing debating talent in Africa.

 

Davida Paul (Nigeria) is an accomplished debater and adjudicator. She has served as a Deputy Chief Adjudicator (DCA) at several prestigious events, including the World Universities Debating Championship (WUDC) and Pan African Universities Debating Championship (PAUDC). Davida is also recognized for her academic excellence, being a 500-level law student at the University of Ilorin.

Public Speaking Chief Adjudicator

Maseke Miriam Rioba (Kenya) is a prominent figure in the African debating and public speaking scene, especially known for her work as a public speaking trainer and adjudicator. She has played significant roles in major debating tournaments, including the Pan African Universities Debating Championship (PAUDC), where she served as the Chief Adjudicator for Public Speaking. Miriam has also been involved in several other major regional events, such as the Uganda Debate Nationals and the Elle Parle Women’s Open.

In addition to her work in debating, she has a strong background in communication and leadership. Miriam is the Programmes Officer for East Africa at Futurelect, supporting public leadership and women's involvement in public office. She is also experienced in project management, particularly in climate action and development communications. Her dynamic communication style and facilitation skills have made her a respected moderator for various international forums.

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