Team South Africa secured first place at the 8th African Spelling Bee competition, held in Harare, Zimbabwe. Nigeria finished second, while the host nation, Zimbabwe, came third. The victory highlights the country’s growing strength in language and literacy development among young learners.
Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube congratulated the team on their outstanding performance, praising their discipline and dedication. Thirteen-year-old Ashton Singh also impressed, securing second place in the junior division.
Department spokesperson Terrence Khala said the achievement reflects more than just success in competition. “The Department of Basic Education remains committed to promoting a culture of reading through programmes and partnerships that extend beyond the classroom and inspire lifelong learning,” he said.
Khala added that the competition served as both a celebration and a call to action. “The trophy presentation marked a celebration of continental success and a renewed call to build a reading nation and, ultimately, a winning nation,” he said.
The department said the victory underscores the importance of literacy initiatives in shaping confident and capable young learners.
VOC News
Photo: X/ @DBE_SA
