A Grade 7 learner from Klerksdorp Primary School, Mbulelo Tolom, is one of six learners selected for Team South Africa. The international competition takes place in Shanghai from 13 to 20 July.

The North West department of education has congratulated Tolom, 12, and wished the national team well as they prepare to compete against some of the world’s best young spellers.

Impressive series of achievements

Department spokesperson Vuyo Mantshule said Tolom’s selection followed an impressive series of achievements.

Last year, Tolom won the 2025 South African National Spelling Bee finals in Sun City. The victory secured his place in Team South Africa for the African Junior Championship Spelling Competition in Zimbabwe, where South Africa finished first ahead of Nigeria and the host nation.

Mbulelo Tolom from Klerksdorp Primary School. Photo: Supplied.

The learners qualified for the international event after progressing through several rounds of the competition, Mantshule said. They first won at school level before advancing through cluster, local, district and national stages to secure their places in the South African team.

“The Spelling Bee Competition promotes literacy, reading, language skills and academic excellence among learners. The competition provides young participants with opportunities to strengthen their confidence, broaden their vocabulary and demonstrate their language abilities on increasingly competitive platforms."

North West education MEC Viola Motsumi wished the team success and encouraged the learners to remain calm and confident. “I encourage our learners to remain calm, confident and believe in their abilities.” 

‘South Africa has some of the finest young spellers’

The learners had already made South Africa proud through their hard work and dedication, Motsumi said. Their achievement was evidence of the commitment shown by teachers who continue to provide quality education, develop language skills and nurture excellence in schools.

“This is their moment to demonstrate to the world that South Africa is home to some of the finest young spellers. We are proud of you and wish you every success. Go and make South Africa proud,” she said.

He hoped the experience would be rewarding and inspiring for Tolom and his teammates. He wished them memorable achievements as they represent the country on the global stage and test their spelling skills against leading young competitors from across the world.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi   cvdw

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