Shallom Omojola
· Indomie, Checkers sponsors the inaugural programme in Nigeria
In an historic moment for the Nigerian educational system, the longest spelling bee competition in the world, Scripps Spelling Bee, USA, has been launched in Nigeria as Spell It, Nigeria.
The Scripps Spelling Bee, USA announced the official entry into the Nigerian educational system at the press conference over the weekend at the well attended event at Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The inaugural Spell It, Nigeria is sponsored by Indomie and co-sponsored by Checkers Custard.
Speaking at the unveiling event, the founder, Young Educators Foundation (YEF), Eugenia Tachie-Menson said that “The much-anticipated Scripps National Spelling Bee USA, has officially arrived in Nigeria, marketing a significant milestone in the nation’s educational history.”
The programme, which has celebrated over a century of academic excellence, is now open to Nigerian students aged 8-13, offering them an unparalleled opportunity to compete on a global stage alongside their peers,” she added.
This debut is a collaborative effort between the Young Education Foundation, Lucid Education Initiative, and the prestigious Scripps National Spelling Bee, USA. The Programme is supported by our Title Sponsor, Indomie Noodles, and co-sponsors, Checkers Custard, whose contributions have been instrumental in bringing this initiative to life,” Tachie-Menson stated.
She said that “The Spell It, Nigeria programme stands out as a ground-breaking initiative that will see Nigeria compete for the first time in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in the United States, joining Ghana as the only two African countries in this prestigious competition.
According to her, the maiden edition is open to schools across Nigeria until early October 2024. With the grand prize being an all-expense-paid trip to the United States for the ultimate winner to participate in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in May 2025.
The ‘Spell It, Nigeria’ is designed with modern educational needs in mind. Spell it, Nigeria is 75% online-based, providing students with the flexibility and accessibility to participate in various regions of Nigeria. This digital approach ensures that even students in remote areas have the opportunity to benefit from this world-class programme. The online component includes a robust curriculum that enhances vocabulary, spelling, and public speaking skills, preparing students for the global stage.
Speaking on the inaugural edition of Scripps Spelling Bee, USA in Nigeria, Tachie-Menson said, “We often hear that literacy is the foundation of education, but today, the definition of literacy extends far beyond just the ability to read and write. In our rapidly changing world, comprehension—truly understanding and processing what we read—is critical to the concept of literacy. It is no longer enough to simply decode words on a page; we must also Grasp their meaning, context, and the nuanced layers of communication that they carry.”
This is where a robust spelling program, such as the Scripps National Spelling Bee, plays an essential role as a co-curricular activity. While traditional curriculum-based learning provides the necessary framework for literacy, spelling programs complement this by deepening students’ understanding of language. Spelling, after all, is not just about memorizing words; it’s about learning the rules and patterns that govern language. This process enhances students’ ability to comprehend complex texts and to communicate their ideas with clarity and precision.”
The Scripps Spelling Bee takes this even further by teaching the rudiments of spelling within a broader literary context.
English, as we know, she said, “Is a language that has borrowed words from at least 13 different languages, each contributing unique elements to its structure. By exposing young learners to the origins and evolution of these words, the Scripps model gives them a richer, more informed understanding of how language works. This exposure not only improves their spelling but also enhances their overall literacy, helping them to see connections between words, meanings, and the diverse cultures from which English has drawn.”
In this way, the Scripps Spelling Bee is not just a competition—it’s a comprehensive learning experience that equips students with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of language and communication in a globalized world. As educators and parents, it is our responsibility to provide such opportunities for our children, ensuring that their literacy skills are not only strong but also deeply rooted in understanding and context.
“Today marks the realization of that vision. This maiden edition of the Scripps Spelling Bee USA in Nigeria will unfold in four phases, each meticulously designed to complement curriculum-based learning while imparting invaluable skills such as critical thinking, public speaking, and teamwork. Beyond the academic benefits, this program will also nurture social skills, instilling in our young Spellers a sense of confidence and resilience that will serve them well in all areas of life.”
According to her, “The Scripps National Spelling Bee has been an emblem of academic excellence for over 100 years, fostering a love for the language and learning among students worldwide. The introduction of “Spell It, Nigeria” marks the beginning of a new chapter in this legacy, expanding the reach of this prestigious programme to yet another vibrant and talented group of young spellers.
We look forward to welcoming you to the exciting launch of the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Nigeria.”
