Zululand NPO’s third annual spelling bee a success

Low literacy levels at South African schools are of great concern, with a large percentage of Grade 4 learners struggling to read for meaning.

The 2021 Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) revealed that 81% of Grade 4 learners in South Africa could not read for meaning in any language, a figure that has been increasing since 2016.

To address these concerns and commemorate World Book Day, the eSikhaleni-based Yenzakahle Foundation brought the power of words to the fore through its third annual Spelling Bee.

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This initiative continues to grow in impact and attract more participants each year.

The competition, which alternates annually between primary and high school learners, was established to not only spark a love for reading and literacy among young people, but also to provide a platform for academic excellence, confidence-building and community engagement.

This year’s instalment shone a light on primary school learners, who showcased their spelling prowess and passion for language in front of a lively audience.

Yenzakahle Foundation founder Robin Sibisi said the event has become a much-anticipated highlight on the local calendar, uniting schools, parents and community members around the shared goal of empowering youth through education.

“We are incredibly proud to have hosted our third Spelling Bee. Each year, we see learners grow not just in vocabulary, but also in courage and public speaking. It’s more than spelling, it’s about opening minds,” said Sibisi.

Sibisi attributed this event’s success to the generous support of local businesses and Ward Councillor Siboniso Ntshangase, whose contributions and commitment to youth development made the day a resounding success.

“We are deeply grateful. Their support shows the power of partnerships in uplifting our communities. As the competition continues to rotate, the NPO hopes to keep building a culture of literacy, one word at a time,” she said.

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