EAST LONDON– A vibrant celebration of language, culture and learning unfolded from 15 to 17 October 2025 as the Eastern Cape Department of Education hosted the Indigenous Language Festival Provincial Eliminations at the Mandla Makupula Education Leadership Institute in East London.
The festival forms part of the department’s ongoing initiatives to improve reading proficiency and promote participation in co-curricular activities.
Central to the event was a strong focus on preserving indigenous languages such as isiXhosa and Sesotho, while fostering pride and identity among learners through their mother tongues.
Speaking at the event Subject Planner for Indigenous Languages (Grades 1–7), Noxolo Twalo expressed pride in the success of the festival, despite some logistical challenges. “The event was successful and served as a strong platform for promoting indigenous languages and fostering pride in cultural identity among learners even though we faced challenges such as time management, logistical coordination and printing of scoring tools,” said Twalo.
She further that the department is committed to improving future editions of the festival through enhanced planning, including pre-event orientations to ensure smooth execution.
The festival saw learners competing in a variety of language-based activities including spelling bees, word relays and book reviews.
One of the standout moments came from Grade 3 learner Linamandla Mavatulana from Lusikisiki Village Junior Secondary School, who clinched first place in the isiXhosa Spelling Bee for her grade. “I am over the moon. We were so many, I didn’t think I could win. I’m glad I won,” said the elated Linamandla, proudly clutching her award.
In addition the festival was not just a moment of pride for learners, but also for educators who have dedicated their efforts to nurturing linguistic and academic excellence.
A Grade 6 teacher from Whittsela Primary School in Chris Hani West, whose learners secured first place in the Word Relay competition, reflected on the achievement. “I am over the moon. It was not an easy journey coming from a small town, we never thought we would take this position. Hard work and dedication brought us here. I am thankful to the parents of these children for trusting me.”
The festival’s grand finale on 17 October saw Grade 7 learners presenting book reviews in both isiXhosa and Sesotho.
These presentations showcased not only language proficiency but also a deep understanding of storytelling, themes, and character development. Audiences were captivated as learners confidently narrated stories in their mother tongues, displaying critical thinking and comprehensive reading skills that underscore the importance of language in education and identity.
A Celebration of Heritage and LiteracyThe Indigenous Language Festival served as a powerful reminder of the province’s rich linguistic heritage and the role schools play in sustaining it. By integrating language competitions into the academic calendar, the Department of Education continues to empower learners to value and take pride in their cultural identities.
This year’s event leaves a lasting impression as a dynamic celebration of indigenous languages, learner achievement, and community pride echoing the province’s commitment to educational excellence and cultural preservation.
Photographs: EC DoE/Supplied
