Even community challenges couldn’t dim the brilliant light of Harmony Primary School’s young stars, whose dedication and teamwork led to a victorious performance at the recently held Phendulani Literacy Quiz.
Steenberg, South Africa (27 October 2025) – Even in the midst of the concerns of violence affecting the community of Steenberg, Harmony Primary School has delivered a story of resilience and hope!
The school’s bright stars shone and impressed as they excelled at the Phendulani Literacy Quiz, hosted by Muizenberg Junior School on Tuesday, 21 October.
Eleven learners represented the school at the quiz, one short of a full complement, after safety concerns led a parent to keep their child home due to the recent surge of violence in Steenberg.
Despite this setback, the teams’ dedication shone through. Competing against 12 teams from six schools, Harmony Team 1 narrowly edged out Harmony Team 2 by a single point to secure the top two positions overall.
The achievement followed months of preparation. Since April, the learners had been reading and mastering the content of 12 books under the guidance of dedicated volunteers from HELP (Homework Enrichment Lifeskills Programme), who coached them at first break every Monday and Wednesday.
Their commitment and teamwork culminated in a thrilling four-round competition filled with excitement, laughter, and pride.
The school principal and staff expressed deep gratitude to Ms Jean and the HELP volunteer team for their tireless support and encouragement, and heartfelt congratulations to the winning teams for their perseverance and outstanding results.
“The Phendulani Quiz makes learners forge friendships and creates a climate of collaboration and care. So much learning takes place. Not only are literacy skills developed, but life skills that enhance each participant’s life. This was such an enriching experience for our children.” Colleen Rustin, Grade 6 Educator, Harmony Primary School.
Harmony Primary School Principal, Mrs Manasse, extended a big ‘well done’ to her amazing learners who shone brightly in the Phendulani Competition.
“We are so proud of your outstanding achievement, you make us all proud – keep shining, keep striving and keep believing in yourselves. To the other learners, let’s be inspired to partake in such activities and continue to make our school proud!”
The Phendulani Literacy Quiz is a South African initiative that is transforming children’s interaction with reading. The educational event has proved to be a dynamic and engaging way of promoting literacy in under-resourced South African primary schools, reinforcing the idea that reading is both rewarding and empowering.
In a media landscape often dominated by negativity, the quiz has offered Steenberg a story of success and renewed hope.
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