In a stunning display of knowledge and composure under pressure, Liyemah Funani, a Grade 11 learner from Theodor Herzl High School, has claimed victory in the regional round of the IIE Varsity College National High Schools’ Quiz (NHSQ).
The victory, achieved during a tense digital competition held at the local Varsity College campus, secures Funani’s place among the top eight finalists who will compete for the national title in Cape Town on Saturday, 13 September.
“This round was exciting and a true test,” said Funani following her victory. “I wasn’t on the leaderboard until much later in the quiz. I’m looking forward to the Grand Finale, where I’ll have the chance to measure my general knowledge against the best minds in the country.”
The competition proved fiercely contested, with Chaez Cannon, a Grade 11 learner from Port Alfred High School, securing second place, while Zeenat Cerfontein from Pearson High School claimed third position.
In its tenth year, the NHSQ takes place across all eight IIE Varsity College campuses nationwide.
The quiz consists of three rounds completed digitally via the popular Kahoot app, testing Grade 11 learners’ general knowledge across Geography, Science and Nature, History, Sport, and Current Affairs.
The national champion will receive R10,000 in prize money, with their school earning R50,000 and their teacher or coach receiving R6,000. The first runner-up and their school will share R16,000, while the second runner-up and their school will receive R9,000.
“The upcoming Grand Finale promises to be an exciting event as it will showcase the brightest young minds from across the country,” said Kim Edwards, PR and Events Coordinator at Varsity College Nelson Mandela Bay.
As Funani prepares for the national competition, she will be representing not only her school but also the entire Eastern Cape region against seven other regional champions from across South Africa.
The IIE Varsity College National High Schools’ Quiz is organised by Varsity College, an educational brand of the Independent Institute of Education (The IIE).
