Young linguists battle it out in spelling competition

Last week, My Zone's Straight Talk show, in collaboration with the National Quiz Masters (NQM), hosted a thrilling spelling competition in Ongwediva.

The event took place at Maurits Devenish Private School and saw 30 participants from over five schools participate.

The competition brought together young spelling enthusiasts, showcasing their linguistic skills and competitive spirit. Participants engaged in intense rounds of spelling, impressing the audience with their knowledge and composure under pressure.

The event not only highlighted the importance of spelling and language skills but also fostered a spirit of unity and productive competition among the learners. Teachers and parents alike applauded the efforts of the organisers and participants, noting the value of educational events in nurturing young minds.



Dream come true

Parents and teachers praised the event for its role in fostering a love for language and learning. "This competition is a fantastic opportunity for our children to develop their spelling and public speaking skills. It also teaches them the value of preparation and resilience," a parent of one of the participants said.

The collaboration between My Zone’s Straight Talk and NQM is part of a broader initiative to enhance educational opportunities and create engaging learning experiences for learners. This is the first-ever competition of its kind, hosted by NQM, which was founded by Beatha Hashiyana, Wilkka Illeka and Serenah Nkunkumo.

“I never had the chance to compete in these types of competitions as a child – even though I always wanted to. This event gives kids who feel like me a chance to realise their potential,” Hashiyana said.

Winners were awarded certificates, medals and trophies. The joy and pride on the faces of the participants were a testament to the success of the competition.



More to come

Events like these play an important role in preparing the youth for future challenges and instilling a lifelong love of learning.

With plans for future competitions already underway, the organisers hope to expand the reach and impact of this initiative, ensuring that more learners across the region can benefit from these enriching experiences. Parents, educators and community members are encouraged to support and participate in these endeavours, fostering a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment for the youth.



Top performers



Grade 4

1st Mulang Yanis, Maurits Devenish Private School

2nd Nghishongwa Joy, Charles Anderson Combined School

3rd Shipila Natangwe, Maurits Devenish Private School



Grade 5

1st Shaheed Khatri, Kleinne Kuppe Private School

2nd Mekelaye Haikali, Charles Anderson Combined School

3rd Jasmine Mgori, Oshana Gymnasium



Grade 6

1st Amen Shiindi, Charles Anderson Combined School

2nd Dortea Nameho, Hashiyana Primary School

3rd Lineekela Nghihangwa, Hashiyana Primary School



Grade 7

1st Nghifikwa Aina, Charles Anderson Combined School

2nd Ester Kakoro, Charles Anderson Combined School

3rd Jeremiah Amutenya, Kleine Kuppe Private School