By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – The atmosphere at New Dawn Christian College is filled with pride and joy after the school achieved an impressive third place in its very first attempt at a district Spelling Bee competition.
Held on 24 September at Charles Mopeli Thusong Centre, the event saw eight schools compete, but it was the determination and resilience of New Dawn learners and teachers that left a lasting mark.
Thirteen learners from the school took part in the contest, with four achieving outstanding results in the foundation and intermediate phases. Grade 6 learner Sesethu Molanthwa stole the spotlight by taking first place in the intermediate phase. She will now go on to represent Qwaqwa and her school at the National Spelling Bee finals in Sun City on 10 and 11 December.
“I am very happy about my win,” Sesethu said with a shy but proud smile. “My mother and grandfather helped me prepare for the competition.”
Joining Sesethu in celebrating were fellow learners who also excelled: Kgauhelo Nteo (Grade 6) – 2nd position in the intermediate phase, Katleho Gampepe (Grade 2) – 1st position in the foundation phase, and Khanyisile Radebe (Grade 2) – 3rd position in the foundation phase. Principal Neria Radebe said the school’s performance was nothing short of a blessing.
“We worked very hard, teachers and learners alike. For our first attempt to achieve this result is a great opportunity and we are so proud of our learners.”
The language teachers who prepared the learners were Maria Lekarapa, Moratuwa Mifi, Ellen Litaba and Veronica Lekarapa who also shared in the pride. On behalf of the teachers, teacher Maria Lekarapa noted that their preparation time was short since they received the competition words late, but the commitment of both learners and educators paid off.
“Despite the challenges, our learners showed incredible determination and commitment. That’s what makes this achievement so special.”
School founder and director Limpho Mpopo echoed the joy, saying the success placed Qwaqwa firmly on the map.
“We are grateful to God for this win. It is a testimony that hard work and prayer bear fruit. This is only the beginning for our school.”
For a school competing for the very first time, New Dawn Christian College has written a remarkable success story. With Sesethu heading to Sun City for the national competition, the entire Qwaqwa community will be rallying behind her, cheering for the little school that proved big dreams can come true.
