Picture: Grade 7 learner, Mbulelo Tolom/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
15 July 2026 – The North West Department of Education extends its heartfelt best wishes to Team South Africa as they prepare to represent the nation at the Spelling Bee World Cup taking place in Shanghai, China from 13 to 20 July 2026. The department is especially proud of a Grade 7 learner from Klerksdorp Primary School, Mbulelo Tolom (12), who has earned a place in the national team.
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said Tolom is one of six outstanding learners who will proudly represent South Africa on the global stage, showcasing their exceptional spelling abilities and academic excellence. Motsumi said last year, Tolom won the 2025 South African National Spelling Bee Finals held in Sun City.
She further said by winning the national title, he earned the opportunity to represent South Africa at the African Junior Championship Spelling Competition, which was held in Zimbabwe. Motsumi added that Team South Africa won the first position, followed by Nigeria in second and Zimbabwe in third.
“The participants in the competition won the spelling competition from School, Cluster, Local Education Area, District and National level. The Spelling Bee Competition promotes literacy, reading, language skills, and academic excellence among learners.
“We wish Team South Africa every success as they prepare to compete at the Spelling Bee World Cup. On behalf of the North West Department of Education, I would like to wish Team South Africa the very best as they compete at the Spelling Bee World Cup in Shanghai, China,” she said.
Motsumi said she encourages their learners to remain calm, confident and believe in their abilities. She said this is their moment to demonstrate to the world that South Africa is home to some of the finest young spellers.
“Their achievement is also a testament to the dedication and hard work of our teachers, who continue to provide quality education and nurture excellence in our schools. We are proud of you and wish you every success. Go and make South Africa proud.
“The department wishes Tolom, his teammates, and the entire Team South Africa every success as they compete against the world’s best young spellers. May this experience be rewarding, inspiring, and filled with memorable achievements.
The Guardian 