A Grade 12 learner of Curro Waterfall won gold for her submission in the South African Schools Debating Board and University of Pretoria’s Centre for Sexualities, Aids and Gender writing competition.
Anamika Beethasi (18) was presented with a gold medal and certificate at an awards ceremony at the university and she is now a published author for the second consecutive year. The annual competition is open to Grade 8 to 12 learners across the country to submit a written entry.
“I enjoy creative and academic writing where you put facts together in an article or essay. It’s sad that I will not get the opportunity to participate again. However, I am proud of everything I have achieved and learned in the competition,” said Anamika.
She only became aware of the competition last year when she was still in Grade 11. “If I had found out about the competition [earlier], I would have participated in it. And it’s sad now that I will not be participating in it next year.”
She said last year’s topic focused on gender-based violence with this year focusing on the effects of Covid-19 and its impacts on learners.
During the pandemic, many learners had to deal with a new process of learning.
Anamika’s mother Tracy Maharaj described her daughter as a go-getter who was dedicated to her books and eager to improve her social entrepreneurial skills.
“She is a diligent child who works extremely hard to achieve well in her academic work. We are proud of her and her commitment because she is just a child who loves learning, who challenges herself and who always wants to do well. We are proud of her and her achievements,” said Maharaj.
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