Byline: Refeloe Letsoisa
30 October 2025
Friends of the library, together with Govan Mbeki Municipality, the Mpumalanga Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation and Gert Sibande District Municipality, hosted the 6th annual Spelling Bee competition on Thursday, 23 October 2025, at Graceland Hotel Casino and Country Club in Secunda.
The aim of the competition was to instil the understanding that education will always be vital in children’s lives.
The competition also aims to help children to learn concepts, improve in comprehension and develop study skills.
Twenty-four (24) primary schools from around Govan Mbeki and Lekwa participated, summing up to a total of 64 spellers.
Out of the 64 spellers, Sasolia Primary School was the overall winner, followed by Curro Secunda Primary School and Igugulabasha Primary School in third position.
The three overall learners won trophies and educational materials, including a laptop and a voucher.
“The moment I entered at the hall, I was very nervous, but my teachers encouraged me to be comfortable and calm. During the competition, I told myself that I can do this, and I stopped panicking,” said Sphesihle Mnguni, a grade 7 learner from Sasolia Primary School.
Sphesihle further stated that she would use her spare time, especially after school, to prepare for the competition.
“I was very happy to be announced as the winner because I did not believe in myself. I am grateful for the laptop because I know that it will help me with my studies in the future,” said Sphesihle.
Other learners received certificates of participation, educational materials, and school bags.
