The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) Basic School has officially launched the Spark Literacy Club, an initiative designed to give learners a space to grow their curiosity and build strong literacy and thinking skills. As part of the launch, the school also hosted a vibrant Spelling Bee competition that showcased students’ talent and enthusiasm for learning.
The chairperson of the event, Mrs Theodosia Wilhelmina Jackson, encouraged parents to replace discouragement with support, motivation, and involvement.
“Encourage them,” she said. “Support their efforts by providing what they need. And let us also appreciate the teachers and facilitators who go the extra mile.”
She emphasized that many of the teachers guiding these learners do so voluntarily. Some of their students have excelled so much that they’ve represented the school in competitions, even traveling as far as the United States.
The day’s event was not only about launching a club, but about celebrating effort, growth, and transformation. Every contestant was recognized, reinforcing the idea that literacy is not just about academics; it is about empowering minds.
“Spelling is not just a competition,” she added. “It is a celebration.”
Mrs Dorothy Opare-Baidu, the Education Director of Oforikrom Municipal, expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to join the celebration despite a busy schedule and highlighted the importance of the day’s theme, “Igniting Minds, The Power of Interest in Action.”
She emphasized that true education must be a system that not only teaches but inspires as well.
“Literacy is not simply the ability to read and write. True literacy is understanding the world, expressing oneself clearly, thinking deeply about complex issues, and engaging meaningfully with the perspective of others,” she explained.
The students were encouraged to embrace every opportunity and think differently. They were also told to explore ideas that feel challenging, reminding them that real growth happens when they step out of their comfort zone.
“Engage with ideas that make you uncomfortable,” she said.
Prior to the main event, the learners had been taken through series of vocabulary tests, PowerPoint presentations and a thrilling discussion on the selected book, ‘GRIEF Child’ with the author, Mr. Lawrence Darmani.
Anisa Timtoni Idris was crowned the champion of the Spark Literacy Challenge. Other students recognized for their outstanding performance include Bhavani Paz Akyeaa Boakye, who was named the Youngest Champion; Anna Teresa Nunoo took second place, and Osei Baffour Akadom secured third place.
A heartfelt congratulatory message was extended to all students who participated in the challenge. Their creativity, dedication, and excellence showcased the brilliance and potential of young minds in the community. Parents and guardians were also commended for supporting their children’s academic journeys.
The Spark Literacy Club has shown glimpses of lighting the paths of its participants and therefore, needs a few more logistics to enhance its operations. Financial support would come in handy for the club, some mobile projectors, laptops, and television sets are specifically some of these items needed by the club at the moment.
By: Akosua Konadu Bandoh
