Heritage Day literacy celebration occurs in Sunnyside, Pretoria

The Department of Basic Education recently hosted a lively Heritage Day Literacy Celebration in Sunnyside, Pretoria. This event was an important part of the annual Literacy Month activities, organised by the DBE’s Reading Directorate. It brought together partners like The_NECT, PENignites, and AfricaEdVillage to offer fun and engaging activities such as storytelling, dance, poetry, and Spelling Bee competitions, aiming to involve both learners and the wider community.

Detailed list of activities and participants

• Event Name: Heritage Day Literacy Celebration.
• Location: Sunnyside, Pretoria.
• Date: Took place as part of annual Literacy Month activities, on Heritage Day.
• Host Organisation: Department of Basic Education’s (DBE) Reading Directorate.
• Collaborating Organisations: The_NECT, PENignites, AfricaEdVillage.
• Key Activities:
  • Storytelling sessions.
  • Dance performances.
  • Poetry showcases by young poets.
  • Spelling Bee competitions.
• Target Audience: Learners and communities.
• Overall Aim: To engage and promote literacy, connecting it with cultural heritage.

Celebrating literacy and heritage in our communities

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) was proud to host a vibrant Heritage Day Literacy Celebration in Sunnyside, Pretoria, continuing our commitment to foster a culture of reading and learning across the country. This special event was a highlight of the annual Literacy Month activities, bringing together the joy of reading with the rich tapestry of South African culture on Heritage Day.

Organised by the DBE’s dedicated Reading Directorate, the celebration saw strong collaboration with our esteemed partners: The_NECT, PENignites, and AfricaEdVillage. Together, we crafted a programme designed to inspire and entertain, engaging both young learners and community members. The day was filled with a variety of interactive activities, from captivating storytelling sessions that brought traditional tales to life, to energetic dance performances showcasing our diverse heritage. Young, budding poets shared their voices in inspiring showcases, while exciting Spelling Bee competitions tested and honed literacy skills in a fun environment. Each activity underscored our belief that literacy is a cornerstone of personal and national development.

Through events like these, the DBE aims to reinforce the importance of reading and writing, not just as academic skills, but as essential tools for accessing information, expressing oneself, and understanding our shared heritage. We encourage everyone to join us in promoting literacy, as it empowers individuals and strengthens our communities. For more information on the department’s ongoing initiatives and to explore other educational resources, please visit our official website at education.gov.za. You can also find more news and activities from the department on platforms like SchoolClick.

Questions and answers for the public

1. What was the Heritage Day Literacy Celebration about?

   It was an event hosted by the Department of Basic Education to promote reading and literacy, linking it with South Africa’s cultural heritage, as part of the annual Literacy Month activities.

2. Where did this celebration take place?

   The event was held in Sunnyside, Pretoria.

3. Who organised the event?

   The Department of Basic Education’s (DBE) Reading Directorate was the main host, working with partners like The_NECT, PENignites, and AfricaEdVillage.

4. What kind of activities were included in the celebration?

   There were storytelling sessions, dance performances, poetry showcases by young poets, and Spelling Bee competitions, all designed to engage learners and the community.

5. How does this event benefit learners and communities?

   It helps improve literacy skills, encourages a love for reading, celebrates cultural heritage, and provides an engaging platform for community interaction and learning.

6. Is this a once-off event or part of a bigger initiative?

   This celebration is an annual activity and a key part of the broader Literacy Month initiatives organised by the DBE.

7. Where can I find more information about the Department of Basic Education’s literacy programmes?

   You can find more details and resources on the Department of Basic Education’s official website at education.gov.za.

8. How can I get involved or support similar initiatives in the future?

   You can stay informed by visiting the DBE website or following educational news platforms like SchoolClick for announcements on future events and volunteer opportunities. Organisations often welcome community support.

9. Why was the event held on Heritage Day?

   Holding the event on Heritage Day allowed for the celebration of our diverse cultural heritage alongside the promotion of literacy, showing how reading and storytelling are integral to understanding and preserving our traditions.