Ruimte Primary School has won the inaugural Hardap Regional Senior Primary Schools Spelling Bee Competition, which brought together 40 Grade Seven learners from 24 schools across the region.

The competition aims to strengthen literacy, expand learners' vocabulary and improve academic performance.

Organised by the Hardap Regional Council's Directorate of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, the competition forms part of efforts to improve academic outcomes in the region.

Regional Education Director Paulus Lewin says the initiative supports the region's five-year turnaround strategic plan, which seeks to improve learners' academic performance.

"One of those objectives is definitely to see that we improve the academic performances of our learners. I mean, it's no secret that over the past years we have really fallen very low, behind the rest of the country in terms of our national status. And we can have two options: either we say yes, 'What is there to do?' or we can go for the better option and say we still remain open. There is still something that we can do. We can bounce back." 

Lewin says improving academic performance requires continued efforts from teachers, parents, school management and learners.

Senior Education Officer Lo-Ami Johannes says the competition also helps learners develop skills beyond spelling.

 "This competition is more than a test of spelling ability. It is an opportunity to develop confidence, critical thinking, concentration, and effective communication skills in our learners. These are qualities that will serve our learners well throughout their educational journey and beyond." 

Ruimte Primary School took first place, followed by Anna Maasdorp Combined School and Kaptein Dr Hendrik Witbooi Primary School.

The top three learners will receive medals and stationery hampers at their respective schools.

First-place winner Holy Ndolo says the experience has taught her the value of perseverance.

"Hello, my name is Holy Ndolo, and I was first place in the regional Spelling Bee in Marienta. I am glad to have this position because it's the first regional spelling bee here, so I like the first one here. But I still, at the same time, feel normal about my first spot, but it's still a good spot. What I learned from this experience is that you can always try, and you can still make it." 

Organisers say the competition will continue to promote reading, literacy and improved academic performance across the Hardap Region.