BT Scotland, which has supported the competition since 1999, strongly believes that working in partnerships with local communities, charities and government, it can make a difference in peoples lives, opening doors to education, jobs, entertainment and social inclusion.

The BT Scotland National Schools' Debate is open to senior secondary Gaelic-speaking students from all parts of the country and it gives them an opportunity to meet and debate issues of local, national and internation relevance.

In recent years the competition Final, which is broadcast live on BBC Craoladh nan Gaidheal, has been held at the Scottish Parliament.

Calum Iain Macleod, Chairman of the Management Committee said, "We are delighted that BT Scotland has agreed to continue with their sponsorship of the Debate. Without the generous support from BT Scotland, it would be impossible to bring children from across Scotland together for the Debate and we are indebted to them for this. As the competition goes from strength to strength so does the confidence, and the research and debating skills of the participants. We look forward to another exciting competition this year."

Liz Turner, Corporate Responsibility Manager, BT Scotland, said: "BT Scotland is proud to be able to support the National Gaelic Schools Debate again this year and to play our part in celebrating the Gaelic language.

"BT has invested millions of pounds over the years in an extensive education programme and we work hard to help young people improve their communication skills. Indeed, the core communication skills of speaking and listening are even more essential in the digital age, regardless of the language you are using."

The Gaelic Schools Debate is now a showcase event for young people to demonstrate their speaking and listening skills as well as their powers of persuasion".

The BT Scotland National Schools' Debate is also supported by Comunn na Gaidhlig, MG ALBA, BBC Alba and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.