Kemer Debate is an inter-school English debating tournament for high schools in the Kemer district. The 2026 edition took place from 12 to 14 May, hosted by Göynük Science High School under the theme “Will the Future Bring Better Days?”. Ten teams and 40 students from local schools took part, and the title went to the Idyros Team of Ünal Aysal Anatolian High School.
Kemer Debate 2026 at a glance
- Dates: 12–14 May 2026
- Host: Göynük Science High School (Göynük Fen Lisesi), Kemer
- Format: inter-school debating tournament held in English
- Theme: “Will the Future Bring Better Days?”
- Participants: 10 teams and 40 students, supported by 15 English teachers
- Winners: Idyros Team, Ünal Aysal Anatolian High School
- Runners-up: Mustafa Ertuğrul Aker Team, Göynük Science High School (88.16 points)
- Prizes: trophies and plaques, plus 17,500 Turkish lira in total prize money
Why debating matters
In a debate, two teams argue opposing sides of a motion, building arguments under time pressure, rebutting the other side and trying to persuade the judges. For students it develops critical thinking, research, public speaking and teamwork all at once. Holding the tournament in English gives students the chance to use the language in a real, high-stakes setting rather than only in the classroom.
What was debated in 2026?
Students debated motions on art, technology, sport, science, history and social issues, all in English. The programme was moderated by Gülay Nezihoğlu, an English teacher at Göynük Science High School, and organised by English teacher Özge Boyacıgil and IT teacher Mehmet Nafi Duymuş.
Göynük and education in Kemer
Göynük Science High School is in Göynük, just north of central Kemer. Kemer Debate has become a local tradition that brings the district’s schools together around languages and academic skills. Dates for the next edition will be announced by Kemer’s district education directorate and the participating schools.
Visiting Kemer with a school group
For teachers and families travelling to Kemer for tournaments, competitions or school trips, staying in central Kemer is practical. Kemer Royal Beach Hotel is in central Kemer, about 250 metres from the sea and a few minutes’ drive from Göynük. For group bookings, all-inclusive, full-board and half-board options are available. Ask for a group quote on WhatsApp or browse our rooms.
Frequently asked questions
When was Kemer Debate 2026?
From 12 to 14 May 2026, hosted by Göynük Science High School.
Who won Kemer Debate 2026?
The Idyros Team of Ünal Aysal Anatolian High School won, with Göynük Science High School’s Mustafa Ertuğrul Aker Team in second place.
What language is the tournament in?
English. Students debate topics in art, technology, sport, science, history and society.
For everything on in Kemer this year, see the Kemer events calendar.
Cover photo: A S M Jobaer, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Adapted with typography and shared under the same licence.