Daveyton learners shine at inaugural Phamisa Buka Literacy and Cultural Festival

The chilly weather did not dampen the excitement as 166 learners from nine primary schoolS gathered to celebrate reading, creativity and culture.

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Zamantolo Fakude 2 minutes read

A boy wearing black uniform and the number 45 — Simangaliso Tladi (12), a learner from Moshoeshoe Primary, took part in Spelling Bee. Photo: Zamantolo Fakude

The cold and gloomy weather did little to dampen the excitement at the Rhoo Hlatshwayo Arts Centre in Daveyton on September 5, where learners gathered for the inaugural Phamisa Buka Literacy and Cultural Festival.

Hosted by the Phamisa Buka Foundation, the festival brought together learners, teachers, parents, authors and community stakeholders to celebrate reading and the opportunities it creates.

Learners took part in spelling, read-aloud and cultural performance competitions, giving them a chance to test their skills and showcase their creativity.

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One parent, Londiwe Ramolefo, lauded the initiative, saying: “These extra-curricular activities have helped my child a lot academically.”

Thato Mantso, from Moshoeshoe Primary School, won the Spelling Bee while fellow Moshoeshoe learner Bokamoso Phosa took first place in the read-aloud competition.

Ntsikana Primary won the cultural performance category, followed by Moshoeshoe and Dumehlezi Primary schools.Festival showcases literacy and youth development

The festival also featured exhibitions by literacy, education, technology and youth development organisations, including Gauteng Libraries and Information Services, Mokoka Library and Sesame Workshop.

Lady sitting by a book stall wearing a blue top and a black jacket, holding a pamphlet — Willow Mdlani of Sesame Workshop is the SA Programmes Implementation Lead. Photo: Zamantolo Fakude.

A man sitting by a book stall wearing a black jacket and a black hat — Willow Mdlani of Sesame Workshop is the SA Programmes Implementation Lead. Photo: Zamantolo Fakude.

Phamisa Buka Foundation founder and CEO Angelinah Kemane said the festival was about more than competition.

“It was about allowing children to experience what becomes possible when we place books, platforms and opportunities in front of them,” she said.

According to Kemane, the event forms part of the foundation’s ongoing literacy programme, which focuses on revitalising school libraries, supporting literacy facilitators and creating opportunities for children to engage with books and storytelling.

The festival was held in partnership with the Gauteng East District of the Department of Education, Gauteng Libraries and Information Services, Nal’ibali, the 100% Foundation and Bacha Ba Dichaba Explorers.