The annual Number Your Words Challenge is once again inspiring young minds across Johannesburg South, with the highly anticipated finals set to take place at Lenasia Ext 3 Library later this month. Building on the success of the past three years, Region G Libraries recently hosted the fourth edition of the literacy and numeracy competition, bringing together some of the brightest Grade 5 learners from across the region.
The Lenasia Ext 3 Library hosted the Tier A semi-final round, featuring learners from Redwood Academy, Al Aqsa Ext 5 Primary, Eldocrest Primary and Lenasia Muslim School on 13 May 2026.
The programme, spearheaded by the City of Johannesburg's Library and Information Services under the Department of Community Development, aims to strengthen literacy and numeracy skills while encouraging a love for learning among primary school learners.
This year's competition attracted 23 schools from across Region G, including schools from Orange Farm, Eldorado Park, Lenasia South and Naturena. The finals for both Tier B and Tier A divisions will take place on 19 and 20 May 2026 respectively.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development Cllr Thapelo Amad applauded learners, educators and organisers for their commitment to education. “It is inspiring to witness the passion, confidence and talent displayed by these young learners. Programmes such as the Number Your Words Challenge play an important role in sharpening critical thinking and building a strong educational foundation for the future."
Quiz moderator and librarian Ferhaad Vally guided learners through demanding rounds of literacy and numeracy questions designed to test their thinking under pressure.
“The first section focuses on literacy, while the second challenges learners in mathematics, arithmetic, logic and geometry. The aim is to stretch their thinking abilities and encourage problem-solving skills," explained Vally.
Eldocrest Primary educator Shalain Philander said learners were selected based on their academic strengths, particularly in mathematics and English.
After a fiercely contested semi-final, Redwood Academy and Al Aqsa Ext 5 Primary emerged as the top-performing schools and secured their places in the Tier A finals.
The stage is now set for an exciting finale as the region's top young minds prepare to battle it out for top honours at the Lenasia Ext 3 Library on 20 May.
Written by Maseipati Tsotsotso
14/05/2026
Recommended for you:
Young book lovers shine at Joburg's Story Skirmish and Battle of the Books finals
Thrilling regional round of the Battle of the Books at Randburg Library
LIS Literacy projects
Readathon pushes kids to read
LIS libraries schools Programmes
To stay informed about the latest developments in the City, connect with us on:
X: @CityofJoburgZA
Facebook: City of Joburg
Instagram: @CityofJoburg
TikTok: @CityofJoburg
Threads: @cityofjoburg
LinkedIn: City of Johannesburg
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CityOfJoburgZA/videos
