The Office of the Speaker hosted the inaugural Spelling Bee & Debate Championship for primary and high schools across Mangaung this past weekend at the Bram Fischer Building under the leadership of the speaker, Lawrence Mathe.
According to the Mangaung Metro spokesperson, Qondile Khedama, this event, held in collaboration with the Free State Department of Education, aimed to foster a spirit of healthy competition and academic excellence among students while enhancing their communication and critical thinking skills.
Acting Director of Early Childhood Development and PSS, delivered a message of support, emphasising that the event celebrated language and empowered learners to achieve more in life. “Language is power, and it is the foundation of all learning. We affirm that this event is not just a showcase of talent, but a demonstration of our collective potential to achieve more,” said Ralipeli.
Mathe said he was delighted to share the platform with the learners. “As the saying goes, ‘The sun does not forget the village just because it is small’. This reminds us that even the smallest achievements are not overlooked, but rather valued.”
The competition commenced with outlining the rules of the spelling bee and debate for the participants. After intense rounds of argument and rebuttal, Heide Primary School from Bloemfontein emerged victorious in the primary school debate category.
Lekgulong High School claimed the championship title in the high school debate category. In the primary category, Reitumetse Mathipe from Tawana Primary in Thaba Nchu secured the top spot in the spelling bee competition. Oikanyega Ditaunyane from Isoseletso High School emerged victorious in the high school category.
In the primary category, the coveted title went to Reitumetse Mathipe from Tawana Primary in Thaba Nchu.
Following closely, Onalenna Kolisang from Tsholetsang finished in a commendable second place, while Moipolai Khuco from Tolanang Combined secured third place.
In the high school category, Oikanyega Ditaunyane from Tsoseletso High School emerged victorious, securing their place at the top of an impressive field. Coming second was Ntombikayise Ntihoko from Qibing High School in Wepenner, with Boitumelo Tefane from Bolokehang High School rounding off the top three.
This initiative celebrated the remarkable talent within Mangaung and acknowledged the hard work and dedication of both students and educators. “Empowering our youth through education will always remain our priority, and we look forward to seeing even greater achievements in the future,” Mathae stated.
Compiled by Justine Fortuin
