Borrowed from mythology and historic traditions the name ‘Atheneum’ means a gathering place for learning and knowledge. At Atheneum we value fostering critical thinking skills and empowering young voices to become effective communicators. We believe in creating a supportive and inclusive community that promotes positive societal impact.

Atheneum was founded by three Head Coaches for Team South Africa: Dr. Ansuya Rungasamy, Dr. Bettina Buabeng-Baidoo, and Christopher Hojem.

Atheneum Debating runs debating and public speaking events and feeds directly into the Gauteng Provincial Schools’ Debating Championships (GPSDC or Gauteng Provincials) run by the Gauteng Schools’ Debating Board (GSDB) in September each year. Atheneum has been a competitive, well-run league that attempts to maximise opportunities for its speakers, ensuring the pinnacle of debating excellence and allowing our speakers to perform their best – notably seen in their selection onto the Gauteng Provincial Team as well as Team South Africa.