From Harare to Home: South Africa’s new African Spelling Bee champions recognized

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Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube received the African Spelling Bee Championship trophy from South African learners who won first place in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Team South Africa competed at the Africa leg of the spelling bee competition, emerging as overall champions, with learner Ashton Singh also achieving second place in the Junior Division.

The minister praised the learners for their remarkable success, highlighting it as a strong illustration of the connection between literacy and excellence.

“A reading nation is a winning nation. These learners have shown us that when we cultivate a strong culture of reading, we unlock the full potential of our young people,” said Minister Gwarube.

Spelling bee’s role

Gwarube pointed out the importance of extracurricular activities like spelling bees in enhancing foundational literacy among students.

These activities not only encourage a profound engagement with literature and language but also contribute significantly to the expansion of vocabulary.

Moreover, participating in such initiatives helps in building learner confidence, making them more proficient in their communication skills.

She further highlighted the importance of partnerships in advancing literacy outcomes, acknowledging the role of A Better Africa and other stakeholders in supporting reading initiatives across the country.

“The government acknowledges that fostering a reading culture requires collective effort and cannot occur in isolation,” Gwarube added.

According to the minister, effective partnerships with various stakeholders—including organizations, educational institutions, teachers, and parents—are essential to provide every child with the necessary opportunities to engage in reading, learning, and ultimately achieving success.

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Gwarube emphasized the department of basic education’s commitment to promoting a culture of reading through initiatives and partnerships that promote lifelong learning beyond the classroom.

“The trophy presentation ceremony marked a celebration of continental success and a renewed call to action for all South Africans to contribute to building a reading nation and, ultimately, a winning nation.”