Correctional Services Minister, Dr Pieter Groenewald has highlighted the importance of literature, emphasizing that the ability to read and comprehend is a gateway to opportunities. Dr Groenewald made these remarks in his keynote address at the official opening of the 14th Funda Mzantsi Championship (FMC) in George, Western Cape Region, on 23 September 2024. The Minister was accompanied by the National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), Makgothi Thobakgale and other dignitaries.
The annual showpiece provides a unique platform where inmates from correctional facilities throughout the Department, including book clubs from schools, universities, communities across the country as well as National Library for the Blind, compete in literature categories such as spelling bee, impromptu reading, book review and debate in all South African official languages.
Minister Groenewald mentioned that every person has the capacity to learn, grow and change, and that there is no better catalyst for such transformation than education, particularly through reading. “Funda Mzantsi Championship is not just about testing reading ability, but more about breaking barriers of limited resources and access to books, with the goal to make reading a joyful, inclusive and transformative activity for all. Let us continue to read, learn and grow,” said Minister Groenewald.
He also expressed his profound gratitude to all book clubs, commending them for partnering with the department and for their willingness to open their hearts and minds to individuals who are often marginalized and misunderstood.
National Commissioner Thobakgale proudly noted that the week-long championship also registered a historical moment where, for the first time since FMC’s inception 13 years ago, Anza Tshilidzi from “Emang Mmogo” Book Club from Northern Cape province, was the first participant to read a book in Braille. He added that a cohort of about 300 participants, comprising of female and male offenders will participate in this year’s competition, representing their respective regions after fending off stiff competition to qualify for the national championship.
He also indicated that DCS will continue to provide the necessary support and be actively involved in FMC. To this end, he committed that DCS will continue to foster partnership with other stakeholders such as the Department of Sports Arts and Culture (DSAC), National Library of South Africa (NLSA) and George Local Municipality amongst others.
A local author, Ms Sharon Eland-Lewis inspired many upcoming authors at the FMC when she shared her journey that culminated in her first book, titled ‘Slegs ‘n enkele kans’ which waspublished by NLSA. She overcame socio-economic challenges to have her book published. Her book is amongst the books selected for FMC 2024 for the book review category.
The 14th FMC will conclude on Friday, 27 September 2024, where results will be announced.