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Run Alex’s Spelling Bee Competition ignites learning in the township

Run Alex Athletics Club recently hosted a lively Spelling Bee Competition, captivating young learners from local schools and transforming education into an engaging adventure.

The vibrant atmosphere of the Alex Museum buzzed with excitement as the Run Alex Athletics Club held its annual Spelling Bee Competition for learners in grades 4 and 6.

This exciting event was part of the Read Alex programme, which aims to promote literacy and a love for reading among the youth in
Alexandra.

Read more: Two PE TVET apprentices shine at WorldSkills national competition

Grade 4s Spelling Bee Competition top three winners from Zenzeleni Primary School Kunene Mabasa with Nobuhle Ndebele who got the title of the Grade 4 champion and Thobeka Lusinga. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe

The event saw enthusiastic participation from local schools, with young spellers battling it out to win the coveted titles in their respective categories.

The competition was fierce, with participants displaying remarkable skill and confidence as they tackled increasingly challenging words.

After a series of intense rounds, the winners emerged: Kunene Mabasa, a Grade 4 learner from Zenzeleni Primary School took home the championship title for the younger group, while Bophelo Matsemela, a Grade 6 learner from Ikage Primary School triumphed in her category.

One of the competition’s judges Nthabiseng Kgosana, Run Alex Athletics Club chairperson Lebogang Mogotlane and the Alex FM presenter Karabo Masemola with their gifts. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe

Kunene said, “Winning this competition means the world to me. I have always loved reading and spelling, and this event was a challenge and a way to meet other kids who share my passion. I’m proud to represent my school and hope to inspire others to appreciate the power of words.”

Bophelo expressed his excitement about the victory, saying, “It feels amazing to win and I am confident and proud of myself. I love spelling and it was fun competing with my friends. I practised a lot and I’m glad it paid off.”

Run Alex Athletics Club co-founder and director for the juniors Siphiwe Nkosi says the Read Alex programme aims to promote literacy and a love for reading among the youth in Alexandra. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe

The club’s co-founder and director for the juniors Siphiwe Nkosi emphasised the club’s commitment to fostering literacy and educational engagement among young learners.

“We are thrilled to host the Spelling Bee Competition and to see so many eager faces participating,” said Nkosi. “Events like this promote not only academic skills but also community spirit. Our youth need to engage in educational activities that develop their talents and inspire a love for learning.

Also read: Artists – you could be the next winner in a leading art competition!

Grade 4 Spelling Bee Competition participants with their certificates. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe

“As much as children read, we then thought of introducing competition programmes which include the Spelling Bee Competition and we are going to look for more next year including public speaking and the Spelling Bee itself.

A parent Abel Kgarose shared his thoughts on the event, expressing gratitude for the opportunity provided by the club.

Grade 6 first prize winner Bophelo Matsemela from Ikage Primary School with the second prize winner Zinhle Ntobela from Green Digital Approach and the third prize winner Ithandile Njele from Zenzeleni Primary School. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe

“I’m so proud of all the children who participated today. Our community needs to support educational initiatives like this. It helps our kids learn in a fun way and encourages them to aim high in their studies,” Kgarose said.

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