Juba Primary Schools Mini Competition to commence next month

Author: Emmanuel Bida

The Juba Primary Schools Mini Competition (JPSMC), a project of the Excellence Foundation for South Sudan (EFSS) is set to commence next month. From October 1st to October 30th, 2024, sixteen (16) primary schools will engage in a series of intellectual challenges designed to inspire and showcase the talents of young minds throughout South Sudan’s capital Juba.

Participating schools include the following:

1. Alekma Academy Nursery and Primary School (Gumbo Sherikat)
2. Saint Peter’s Nursery and Primary School (Gumbo Sherikat)
3. Juba Parents’ School (Nyakuron West along Juba - Yei Road)
4. Diplomatic Nursery and Primary School (Nyakuron West)
5. Glorious Baptist Academy Nursery and Primary School (Jondoru)
6. Blessed Junior School (Jondoru)
7. Bishop Mazzoldi Memorial Nursery and Primary School (Hai Buluk)
8. Kings Academy Digital Primary School (Munuki along Gudele Road)
9. Holyland Academy Nursery and Primary School (Nyakuron South)
10. Saint Philip Primary School (Hai Mauna)
11. Friendship Academy Nursery & Primary School (Suk Mamur)
12. Juba Diplomatic School (Hai Referendum)
13. Liech Primary School (PoC 1 Checkpoint)
14. Saint Paul Nursery and Primary School (Hai Referendum)
15. Ashwood Comprehensive School (Luri)
16. Baraka Central Nursery & Primary School (Hai Baraka)

This year's competition marks the third edition of this educational initiative, which has quickly become a highlight in the academic calendar. The format will involve exciting school-to-school visits, where contestants will have the opportunity to compete in various categories: the Spelling Bee, Speed Challenge Quiz, Memorized Speech, and an Academic Debate.

The theme for this year's competition is Climate Change, a pressing global issue that resonates deeply with learners and educators alike. Focusing on this theme, participants will not only demonstrate their academic abilities but also engage in meaningful discussions about environmental responsibility and sustainability. It’s a fantastic opportunity for participating children to learn more about climate issues and articulate their thoughts on how to combat this challenge.

The Spelling Bee will test contestants' linguistic skills, while the Speed Challenge Quiz will push their knowledge and quick thinking to the limit. The Memorized Speech category will allow pupils to express their views and ideas creatively, while the Academic Debate will encourage critical thinking and the ability to form coherent arguments based on research and current events.

Parents, teachers, and head teachers are encouraged to support their schools as they prepare for this whole month of competition. It's a chance for the children to shine, build confidence, and foster camaraderie among peers from different schools.

The fixtures can be downloaded below:

As the competition draws closer, anticipation is palpable. Who will emerge as the champions of this year’s Juba Primary Schools Mini Competition 2024? One thing is for sure: the event will not only celebrate academic excellence but also inspire the leaders of tomorrow to take action on one of the most pressing issues of our time.