Learners shine at Khoekhoegowab spelling bee
The University of Namibia hosted the first-ever Khoekhoegowab Spelling Bee in Windhoek last week, bringing together Grade 8 to 12 learners from seven schools to celebrate language, culture and knowledge.Learners showcased their skills in spelling and vocabulary in Khoekhoegowab, impressing both the audience and a panel of expert judges.
The competition featured participants from Rehoboth High School, Augustineum Secondary School, Westmont High School, |Anes Secondary School, CJ Brandt High School, Groot-Aub Secondary School and Acacia High School.
Edda Bohn, deputy executive director at the education, arts and culture ministry, emphasised the importance of promoting indigenous languages.
She acknowledged the shortage of reading materials in Khoekhoegowab, assuring that the ministry is working to address this.
Preserve language
Job Sylvanus, head of the Khoekhoegowab section at Unam, highlighted the community’s role in driving change.
“As the Khoekhoegowab-speaking community, the responsibility is on us to become active in our events, to promote language and culture. It is about agency and taking ownership of the change we want to see," he said.
Christine ||Hoebes, special advisor to the president, praised the initiative, stressing the importance of preserving indigenous languages for future generations.
The Khoekhoegowab Spelling Bee concluded with outstanding performances from learners.
Victoria !Nowases of CJ Brandt High School secured first place, while Dreyer Stephanie of |Anes Secondary School took second place. Third place went to Senoritha Buys, also from |Anes Secondary School.
The spelling bee was hailed as a milestone in safeguarding Namibia’s linguistic heritage, ensuring Khoekhoegowab remains vibrant and relevant in modern society.