The Eastern Cape Department of Education hosted the Provincial Elimination of the Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) Financially Literacy Spelling Bee competition, bringing together the province's brightest young minds to showcase their financial knowledge and spelling skills.
24 learners from districts across the Eastern Cape participated in challenging financial literacy terms and concepts tested learners' expertise.
According to the Primary Curriculum Management Director, Nosisi Zibi."This prestigious event will identify and recognize top of the cream spellers in the province who demonstrated exceptional knowledge of financial literacy terms and concepts."
Speaking on behalf of the Education Department was Chief Director, Examination Department, Mzimhle Mabona said, "This competition represents a critical milestone in our journey to equip our youth with essential financial literacy skills as we strive to build an economically empowered society and recognizing the importance of financial education in unlocking opportunities, therefore, let us reaffirm our commitment to empowering future leaders. Together, we can build an economically prosperous and financially literate society.
"The Banking Association South Africa is proud to support the EMS FINLIT Spelling Bee Provincial Elimination Competition, empowering the next generation of financial leaders with essential literacy skills." Said BASA, Financial Education Programme coordinator, Tshireletso Sere.
Additionally Sere said; "By supporting this competition, we are investing in the financial future of our nation. We believe that financially literate youth will drive economic growth and prosperity."
Bianka Engelbrecht, an EMS grade 7 teacher at Southbourne Primary School, in the Chris Hani West district said she is very proud that all the learners have reached Provincial level.
"They worked so hard practicing their words, phrases and concepts.
"Each learner had over 500 words to learn and used every opportunity to practice, during classes, after school classes and during break times. Engelbrecht went on to say; "Goodluck to all the participants and may their hard work pay off."
A grade 7 learner from Tembeni SPS, from Chris Hani East District, Imange Mthini, has thoroughly enjoyed the competition and put alot of time and effort in preparing for the competition.
When asked what message would he give to other learners that will participate in future years he said; "Believe in yourself and keep working but don't push yourself too hard."