Gayaza Junior School sends six for the Africa Youth Scrabble Championship

Six students from Gayaza Junior School have been selected to compete in the second edition of the PANASA Africa Youth Scrabble Championship, which will take place at Brighton International School in Katani, Kenya, from August 14 to 17. 

More than 120 players from approximately 14 countries across Africa, ranging in age from 7 to 19 years, will participate in this biennial event, held alongside the Presidents Cup at the Trade Mark Hotel on the same dates. 

Uganda will be represented by 30 students from various primary and secondary schools, including six from Gayaza Junior School, who will compete in the under-15 category. 

This championship is the largest youth Scrabble event in Africa, attracting top youth talent from the continent.

The Gayaza students are Clancy Namujjuzi, Meagan Owomugisha, Elizabeth Nakimuli, Reverie Ynez, Myra Siwoza, and Meghan Ankunda. Their participation comes as the school celebrates its 120th anniversary this year.

Team coach Ronald Lwebuga expressed confidence in the team's preparation, stating that they have worked hard to master the essential two- and three-letter words, as well as the calculations needed to excel in the championship. 

"We will fight hard to ensure we return with medals," Lwebuga said. 

Before the departure, the school chaplain, Robert Ssebagala, offered a prayer for the team. Headmistress Sarah Kizito Tebugulwa encouraged the students to maintain discipline, emphasizing that it is key to their success. 

Head of Games and Sports, Daniel Kasawuli, mentioned the school’s commitment to producing well-rounded students who can balance academics and sports, which led them to embrace the Future Stars Sports program early this year. 

Nigeria is the defending champion, having won the event in 2023 when they hosted it on home soil. The Presidents Cup at the Trade Mark Hotel, will also attract players from the US, UK, Australia, and various African nations. 

The total prize fund for the event is $32,000 (approximately sh114 million). Scrabble was part of the last Africa Games in Ghana and continues to gain popularity, with the World English Scrabble Players Association (WESPA) working towards making it an Olympic sport.