Liwa Primary School in Nyanga will be among five schools who will be representing the province in a water awareness competition in Johannesburg next month.
They took part in the national Department of Water and Sanitation’s Baswa Le Meetse (Youth in Water) provincial competition in Bellville on Saturday June 3.
Baswa Le Meetse (BLM) is a programme aimed at recognising the achievements of youths in their efforts to promote efficient water use, as well as health and hygiene.
More than 200 Grade 6 pupils from 25 provincial schools competed in drama, music, praise singing, poetry and a poster category under the theme “Water is Life and Sanitation is Dignity”.
Each school was allowed to enter two categories, with Liwa Primary School taking part in music and poetry.
They came second in poetry and won the music category, walking away with a cash prize of R10 000.
Half of the money is for the school and the other half is for the pupils’ expenses to Johannesburg.
Teacher Noluthando Banzana, who also teaches arts, culture and traditional dance, said she was happy with her pupils’ achievement. “The dancers worked hard even though they were a bit scared backstage, but as they entered the stage they gave it their all,” said Ms Banzana.
Professional dancer Thandi Swartbooi worked with the school in preparation for the contest. “We want to win at national level that is why we asked Thandi to help us,” said Ms Banzana.
Grade 7 pupil and a team leader Sinovuyo Totolo, 12, says they are happy that they will be flying to Johannesburg next month.
“We were very nervous at first when we saw other schools. We thought we would not win, but we did it. I have never flown anywhere before and I am thankful for the opportunity,” said Sinovuyo.
The other category winning schools include Mseki Primary School in Gugulethu for poetry; Ludwe Ngamlana in Kuyasa for singing; and Caradale Primary School in Mitchell’s Plain for the poster competition.
The schools conveyed messages on water saving, drought and the impact of water shortages on health and hygiene.
