EAST LONDON— The Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) hosted a provincial languages Spelling Bee competition at the Mandla Makupula Education Leadership Institute in East London on 23rd October 2025. The competition aimed to test learners’ ability to spell words correctly, improve their spelling skills and build language proficiency. In addition, the initiative seeks to develop and nurture a love for languages among learners across the province.
This year’s event featured learners from schools across all districts, competing in English and Afrikaans categories for both the Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase.
Speaking at the event, Advisory Panel Member for Literature at the department also a previous competition winner, Nomawele Njongo, emphasized the cultural importance of language learning. “We should be rooted in our languages so that we stay grounded in who we are, even as technology advances. We live in a digital era where things are constantly changing, but that doesn’t mean we should forget who we are and where we come from. Only then can we understand where we are going,” she said.
The Director for Primary Curriculum Management at ECDoE, Khaya Mulawu, highlighted the educational significance of the Spelling Bee. “The Spelling Bee is one of our most important activities in the Foundation Phase. It allows our learners to grow their vocabulary and gives them an opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of words. It also supports our broader goal of ensuring that learners are able to read for meaning,” said Mulawu.
Furthmore parents filled the venue in support of their children, cheering them on as they showcased their spelling skills and language knowledge. The atmosphere was electric with excitement and encouragement as learners took to the stage to demonstrate their linguistic abilities.
Among the winners was Grade 3 learner Kutu Alime from George Randell Primary School in the Buffalo City Metropolitan, who claimed first place in the English Foundation Phase category.“Thanks to my dad for the support I am so happy,” said an elated Alime. In the English Intermediate Phase category, Yahya Khab from King Edward Primary School in the Alfred Nzo District took top honours.“I feel like a champion! All thanks to my parents and teacher for supporting me,” said Khab.
In addition learners who did not make it to the top positions were also acknowledged with medals and certificates for their participation a gesture that reinforced the event’s inclusive and celebratory spirit.
The event underscored the importance of spelling and language proficiency in laying a strong foundation for future academic success.
As the Department continues to implement its reading strategy, initiatives like the Spelling Bee remain vital in equipping learners with the skills to read, write, and communicate with confidence.
Photographs: supplied
