SPEAK UP 2026 FINALS: YOUTH VOICE FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
On June 4, 2026, Auditorium A at Dong Nai Technology University (DNTU) was electrified by the fiery academic atmosphere of the SPEAK UP 2026 English Speaking Contest Grand Finale, themed "Voices for a Sustainable Future." Hosted by the Faculty of Foreign Languages, the event transcended a conventional language competition, serving as a launchpad for intellect where young global leaders leveraged knowledge, courage, and their voices to shape tomorrow's world.
To ensure fairness, objectivity, and top-tier expertise for the Grand Finale, the Organizing Committee was honored to welcome a distinguished panel of judges, comprising leading scholars and experts in linguistics and sustainable development:
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Mr. Zafar Junaid, M.A. – An elite lecturer at Dong Nai Technology University, bringing a wealth of experience and sharp international pedagogical insights.
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Mr. Pham Anh Đức, M.A. – Academic Director of Duc Thinh Academy, a seasoned expert dedicated to shaping and developing linguistic mindset for the younger generation.
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Ms. Patricia Mega Karsodihardjo – Carbon Accounting Specialist at framas Group, who provided invaluable, real-world perspectives on environmental issues and global corporate sustainability.
Outperforming a fierce field of competitors in the preliminary rounds, the top six teams from both domestic and international universities advanced to the live Debate Round, setting the stage for a series of breathtaking showdowns.
Round 1: "The Arena of Intellect" – Where Sharp Arguments Reign Supreme
| Trận đấu | Affirmative Team | Negative Team | Topics |
| Match 1: |
Team WAW: We Are Warriors (WCC Aeronautical & Technological College, Philippines) |
Team CTXH (Dong Nai Technology University, Vietnam) |
Is Artificial Intelligence the ultimate catalyst for a sustainable future? |
| Match 2: |
Team RenewGen (Divine Word College of Calapan, Philippines) |
Team The Champion (Dong Nai Technology University, Vietnam) |
Should economic growth take precedence over environmental protection in developing countries? |
| Match 3: |
Team Yogyakarta Oneformatics (Sarjanawiyata Tamansiswa University, Indonesia) |
Team Wonder Pups (Dong Nai Technology University, Vietnam) |
Should sustainability education be integrated as a compulsory subject for all university students? |
Armed with just three minutes per turn, the contestants transformed the stage into a veritable "intellectual avenue." Their rock-solid data, razor-sharp critical thinking, and masterful command of the language left Auditorium A erupting in awe time and time again.
The CTXH Team delivers their performance at the Grand Finale
The Renewgen Team delivers their performance at the Grand Finale
The WAW (We Are Warriors) Team delivers their performance at the Grand Finale
The Champion Team delivers their performance at the Grand Finale
The Yogyakarta Oneformatics Team delivers their performance at the Grand Finale
The Wonder Pups Team delivers their performance at the Grand Finale
Round 2: Dialogue Under Fire and the Moment of Glory
Following the intense mental battle of Round 1, the top three teams emerged to advance to the Discussion Round. The stakes were instantly doubled as teams drew lots to face direct cross-examination from a designated judge. Throughout a grueling 10-minute live dialogue, the young visionaries demonstrated concrete teamwork and remarkable agility, turning the tide against complex, global-scale questions.
The CTXH Team delivers their performance at the Grand Finale
The Champion Team delivers their performance at the Grand Finale
The Wonder Pups Team delivers their performance at the Grand Finale
Interspersing the high-stakes competition were spectacular and high-energy cultural performances by DNTU’s very own students, further fueling the electric atmosphere of the Grand Finale.
The most emotional and highly anticipated moment of the Grand Finale arrived as the prestigious titles found their rightful owners. Auditorium A erupted into deafening applause when the CTXH Team from DNTU was officially crowned the Champion of SPEAK UP 2026.
Following an intense neck-and-neck race for the points, the First and Second Runner-up titles were awarded to team Wonder Pups (WCC) and team The Champion (DNTU), respectively.
The Consolation Prize was awarded to team Yogyakarta Oneformatics (Sarjanawiyata Tamansiswa University)
The crowd also gave a roaring ovation to the CTXH Team as they secured the "Most Popular Video" award, driven by their viral wave across social media platforms.
Although the SPEAK UP 2026 Grand Finale has drawn to a close, the echoes of its inspiring speeches and the bright smiles of international friendship will resonate for a long time to come. The competition has fully realized its mission: connecting young "voices" and igniting a powerful flame of action for a greener tomorrow.
The Faculty of Foreign Languages at DNTU extends its heartiest gratitude to the University Management Board, the distinguished Panel of Judges, our sponsors, and all domestic and international competing teams. We look forward to welcoming you all back for even more sensational seasons ahead!
DNTU, June 18, 2026
Reported by Huynh Le Minh Trang
