Monika Amunyela
Focus Academy has launched Season 2 of the Spelltacular Spelling Series, which is set to run from February to November 2026.
The series kicked off on 21 February 2026. The 2026 edition will take place once a month, with each edition focusing on a specific grade, starting with Grade 7 and working down to Grade 2. According to program coordinator Rutendo Chikande, the change was intentional.
“When we started in October 2024, we grouped all grades into categories, but we realised that learners have different understanding capacities. Having a series allows us to pay proper attention to each grade; it’s mostly for order,” she said.
Participating in schools this season include Kleine Professor Collage private school (KPC), Building Blocks Academy, Windhoek Gymnasium, Pioneers Park Primary, Steamfinity Academy, and Emma Hoogenhout.
When asked about the lasting impact of the spelling bee, Chikande stated that, “Spelltacular improves vocabulary, spelling accuracy, confidence, and public speaking skills. They also encourage discipline and a love for learning.”
She further added that it also prepares them for the outside world, as being on stage builds learners’ confidence. All participants received a participation certificate and a goodie bag, sponsored by Media Solutions, the main sponsor of the Spelltacular Spelling Series. The top five spellers received cash prizes, and the top three also earned medals in addition to their cash awards.
The top five winners were T. Mupupa from KPC, A. Nasilowski from Windhoek Gymnasium, A. Hansen from KPC, A. Muronga from Building Blocks Academy, and A. Gama from KPC.
Chikande stressed the importance of sponsorship in sust. “Sponsorship is very important because it helps cover costs, provides resources, and allows us to give the learners good awards,” she said.
She also gave a few words of encouragement to future participants that, “Practice daily, read widely, learn word meanings, and believe in yourself. Confidence and preparation make a big difference.”