A love of reading, teamwork, and the pursuit of knowledge brought learners from across Gauteng together at Regents Park Primary School for the Phendulani Literacy Quiz provincial finals.

The event celebrated young readers’ achievements while highlighting the importance of literacy in helping children develop confidence, improve comprehension, and think critically.

Promoting literacy since 2008

Founded in 2008 by high school teacher Marj Brown, the Phendulani Literacy Quiz was established to recognise the important role literacy plays in learning across all subjects. Brown also recognised that reading contributes to individuals’ emotional and social wellbeing.

The initiative aims to promote reading among young South Africans and support their personal, intellectual and social development.

Its annual quiz gives primary school learners the chance to compete in teams, measure their progress and celebrate their achievements.

The quiz is designed to be fun, challenging, exciting and educational. It encourages learners to open books, improve their comprehension, develop critical-thinking skills and build a lasting appreciation for reading.

Reading to learn and lead

With 15 district champions competing for provincial honours, the quiz gave learners an exciting chance to put their reading knowledge to the test.

Beyond the competition, it encouraged them to discover the joy of reading and understand how books can open doors to learning and new opportunities.

Welcoming the participants, teacher Renee Poragadu from Regents Park Primary School said the school was privileged to host an event that placed literacy and academic excellence at the heart of learning.

“Today, our school is proud to serve as a vibrant heart of literacy, critical thinking and academic excellence.”

Quoting celebrated children’s author Dr Seuss, Miss Poragadu reminded learners of the opportunities that reading can create: “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you will go.” She further encouraged participants to trust their knowledge, work hard, celebrate one another and enjoy every moment of the competition.

The 15 schools that qualified for the provincial finals after competing in their respective district rounds included Rynsoord Primary, Colin Mann Primary, Strubenvale Primary, Cullinan Primary, Krugersdorp Town, Robertsham Primary, Eastgate Primary, Thembalihle Primary, De Ruiter Primary, Laerskool Unitas, Makapane Primary, Khensani Primary, Silverton Primary, Marlboro Primary and Regents Park Primary.

Addressing the learners, Dr Mandla Masango of the Gauteng Department of Education highlighted the importance of promoting reading to improve literacy and support learners’ development.

He explained that the department’s Library Services section works with district officials and schools to encourage children to become regular readers.

These efforts form part of broader initiatives to address reading challenges among South African learners. “The purpose of the quiz is not only to test your knowledge as learners but also to encourage you to develop a love for reading, to improve your comprehension skills, as well as build confidence,” Dr Masango said.

He further shared that reading should equip learners with more than the ability to remember information. It should also help them express their thoughts, share ideas and communicate confidently.

Masango reminded participants that the event was about more than winning. “Today is not just about winning, but it is about learning,” he said, encouraging learners to share the books and resources they had read with others to help build a stronger reading culture in their schools.

He called on schools and learners to create an environment where books are valued, and reading is part of everyday life.

Robertsham takes first place

The provincial finals ended on a high note, with the top three schools announced. Robertsham Primary School claimed first place, followed by Strubenvale Primary School in second and Colin Mann Primary School in third.

Robertsham Primary School’s victory was particularly special, as its Grade Six learners celebrated a remarkable double achievement.

After securing first place at district level, they went on to claim the provincial title, demonstrating outstanding literacy skills, teamwork, and dedication.

Through initiatives such as the Phendulani Literacy Quiz, learners are encouraged to explore books, develop their understanding and share their knowledge with others.

The event also reminds schools to create an environment where reading is encouraged and books are valued.