Nal’ibali commemorates #WorldLiteracyDay with Story Bosso
The search is on for the best storyteller.
On Tuesday, September 8, Nal’ibali launched their nationwide storytelling competition called Story Bosso.
The launch was coupled with the celebration of International Literacy Day which is celebrated worldwide on September 8.
The event was held at Motjoli Primary School in Klipspruit where pupils showcased their storytelling skills to their peers.
The programme was directed by YoTV presenter Karabo Bonco and special guests included professional storyteller Nomsa Mdlalose and local jazz and afro pop singer, Judith Sephuma.
At the event pupils were encouraged to read stories, not only in English but in their home languages as well.
The first round of auditions for the competition was held and Keabetswe Qhojeng came out top. The Grade Seven pupil from Kliptown told her story in SeSotho.
He will go on to compete with other pupils from other schools who will come from other provinces.
Smangele Mathebula who is driving the campaign from Nal’ibali emphasised the importance of storytelling in promoting literacy amongst pupils.
She said, “We encourage parents to not only focus on reading and writing amongst their children. They should also encourage storytelling as well because it forms a big part of our heritage.”
The winner of Story Bosso will walk away with R5000 cash, R100 Ackermans shopping voucher and a home library courtesy of Bargain Books and Exclusive Books.
Sally Mills who is the networks and communications coordinator at Nal’ibali said, “The competition is aimed at reawakening a love of storytelling among all South Africans, the competition will connect the public to ideas and inspiration on how to tell stories and read aloud to others.”
The launch of this competition coincides with Heritage Month with is celebrated in September in this country. It allows participants to submit stories written in local indigenous languages.
