Eastern Cape's Young Wordsmiths Shine in Spelling Bee Competition

The Primary Curriculum Directorate (PCMD) at the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDOE) recently hosted an exciting Spelling Bee Competition at Mandla Makupula Education Leadership Institute on 23 October 2025. This motivational program is designed to strengthen reading and writing skills among English and Afrikaans Foundation phase learners and English Intermediate phase learners.

"The Spelling Bee Competition is an initiative aimed at promoting a culture of reading and writing among learners, while also identifying and nurturing talented young spellers," says Khaya Molaoa, Director of Primary Curriculum Directorate. "Our goal is to improve literacy rates and equip learners with essential language skills, setting them up for success in their academic journey."

The competition, which started at school level, has now progressed to the provincial level, with nationals scheduled to follow. Tembisa Jompolo, Deputy Chief Education Specialist and Program Manager, highlights the benefits of the competition: "The Spelling Bee Competition improves learners' language skills, boosts their confidence, concentration, and critical thinking abilities, and provides an excellent platform for learners to develop essential life skills."

We are proud to announce the winners of the Spelling Bee Competition:

- English Foundation Phase:

    - 1st Place: Kutu Alime - George Randell Baffalo City Municipality

    - 2nd Place: Loius de Klerk - Cradock  Preparatory School, Chris Hani

    - 3rd Place: Mastopha Zaid - Grey Junior School, Nelsom Mandela Bay

- Afrikaans Foundation Phase:

    - 1st Place: Izel Smit Hodrskool Joe Gqabi

    - 2nd Place: Leni Arias - Hillcrest Chris Hani

    - 3rd Place: Danika Oostheizen - Laerskool Buffalo City Municipality

- English Intermediate Phase:

    - 1st Place: Yahya Khan - King Edward, Afred Ndzo

    - 2nd Place: Nyoba Amile Silingela - Chris Hani

    - 3rd Place: Shukuma Zimi - Model Private, OR Tambo Inland

Yahya Khan, one of the winners, said: "I appreciated the warm-up to the competition and professionalism that was displayed."

Narusta de Klerk, a parent, echoes the sentiment: "As a parent, I believe it's essential to get involved in our children's education, and the Spelling Bee Competition is a fantastic opportunity to do so."

The skills and confidence gained through the Spelling Bee Competition lay a strong foundation for future academic success, particularly in the critical years leading up to Matric. By developing a love for language and improving literacy skills, learners are better equipped to tackle the challenges of the Matric exams and set themselves up for success in their future studies and careers.

The Spelling Bee Competition is open to English and Afrikaans Foundation phase learners and English Intermediate phase learners. Schools, parents, and learners are encouraged to participate and make the most of this fantastic opportunity. Allow your children Join us in empowering young minds through literacy competitions and making a difference in the Eastern Cape's future!