On 6 June 2026, the Pella Matlhako Development Group (PMDG) successfully hosted its annual Mopeleto and Reading Competition at the Tlokweng Community Library, bringing together learners, educators, parents, and community members in a celebration of literacy, learning, and academic excellence.
The competition forms part of PMDG's "Think Again" Programme, an initiative designed to strengthen literacy and critical thinking through four educational projects: Mopeleto (Spelling), Spelling Bee, Reading, and Debate. This year's competition focused on Mopeleto for Grades 4–5 and Reading for Grades 6–7, encouraging learners to improve their language skills while building confidence through public participation.
Empowering Young Learners Through Literacy
Five primary schools from the Pella community, Botlhale, Goitsemang, Gobusamang, Mosome, and Tapos participated in the programme, with an impressive 133 learners taking part. The competition was conducted in two preliminary rounds during May, culminating in the grand finale on 6 June 2026, where the top three learners from each grade competed for top honours.
Guided by the inspiring theme "Pens Down, Brains Up, SPELL IT OUT," the programme aimed to:
- Promote a culture of reading among learners.
- Improve spelling and language proficiency.
- Build confidence through public speaking and reading.
- Encourage healthy academic competition.
- Strengthen community participation in education.
Pictured: Mamorongwe Nkau (Mosome Primary School, Position 3)
Pictured: Redumetse Rametsi (Botlhale Primary School)
Celebrating Excellence
The finalists showcased remarkable determination, confidence, and talent throughout the competition. Winners received a range of prizes, including trophies, tablets, medals, certificates, dictionaries, and shopping vouchers, recognising their outstanding achievements and motivating them to continue striving for academic success.
The event was well supported by teachers, parents, School Governing Body representatives, and officials from the Department of Basic Education, creating an encouraging environment that celebrated the learners' hard work and dedication.
Pictured: Bokang Ntlele (Grd 6 Tapos Primary School, 2nd position)
Pictured:Tshenolo Khudge (Grade 4 from Tapos Primary School)
Challenges and Opportunities
While the was highly successful, PMDG identified several areas for improvement. These included learner absenteeism during the finals, logistical challenges involving transport and communication, limited support from some school leadership structures, and funding constraints that affected the ability to provide educational resources and recognition to every participant.
To strengthen future competitions, PMDG recommends expanding learner support through reading clubs and confidence-building activities, improving logistical planning, increasing stakeholder involvement, and extending the programme to more schools and neighbouring communities.
Building a Brighter Future Through Reading
The enthusiasm displayed by the learners throughout the competition highlighted the transformative power of literacy programmes in rural communities. Their eagerness to learn, compete, and grow demonstrated that with the right opportunities and support, young people can achieve remarkable academic success.
PMDG extends its sincere appreciation to all participating learners, teachers, parents, the Department of Basic Education (Moses Kotane District), and the staff of Tlokweng Community Library for their invaluable contributions to the success of the event.
Special thanks are also extended to the programme sponsors Spitfire Inbound, Semfeng Attorneys, and Sethunyane Attorneys—whose generous support made the competition possible.
As PMDG continues to invest in literacy and education, initiatives such as the Mopeleto and Reading Competition remain an important platform for nurturing confident readers, skilled communicators, and future leaders within the community.
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