Anelisa Sokweba, Mbali Lushozi and Karabo Ntanzi were crowned the top spellers during the annual Bacha Ba Dichaba Explorers (BBDE) Spelling Bee competition at Tshepo Themba Multipurpose Centre in Etwatwa on April 20.
Sokweba and Lushozi, from Dan Pharasi Primary School, and Ntazi from Thopodi Primary School out-spelled 109 other hopefuls to become this year’s champions.
“I’m happy with the outcomes of the competition. We had our 24 top students who will represent us in Limpopo in September. These learners need assistance to attend the event. Overall, I was happy to see teachers and parents supporting their children,” said organiser and BBD founder, Thabang Dichaba.
The competition was attended by 112 learners from seven schools from Daveyton and Etwatwa. Thopodi Primary School dominated and had the most learners in the 24-member team going to Limpopo.
“Congratulations to all the winners and participants. I want to thank SAAYC and the 100% Foundation for always supporting us. We appreciate their support,” Dichaba said.
Provincial competition
Dichaba explained the BBDE will host an indigenous spelling bee competition around the province to foster the culture of reading and increase the use of mother tongue languages.
“We will start with elimination rounds and will select the top 10 spellers per region for the final round, where will crown our champion.”
He appealed for financial assistance to host these events, which are earmarked for May and June.
The dates are as follows:
• May 17 – Vaal
• May 31 – Gauteng west
• June 14 – JHB region
• June 21 – Tshwane
• June 28 – Ekurhuleni
The venues will be confirmed closer to the time.
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