Weweso JHS wins 5th edition of Otumfuo Reading Competition 2026

In Kumasi, Joycelyn Akosua Manu Duah, a student at Weweso M/A JHS, emerged victorious in the 5th edition of the Otumfuo Community Reading Challenge. The competition, originally the Oduom champion's domain, saw Joycelyn secure first place with a commendable 95.2 points. Her closest competitor, Stephanie Agyiewaa from Yamfo Methodist School, came in second with 95.1 points.

Magdalene Duodu Akwabeng from Manuel International School claimed third place with 94.3 points. Obuasi champion Randy Boakye Yiadom of Bodomase St. Stephen R/C JHS followed with 92.9 points. Barekese champion Samuel Opoku Kyeremah of Adankwame D/A JHS finished last with 91.0 points. Established by the Otumfuo Foundation, the Otumfuo Community Reading Challenge aims to promote reading, enhance literacy, and foster the development of reading and comprehension skills among students.

This was the fifth edition of the competition, gathering top student readers from various communities for the grand finale at Manhyia Palace. Joycelyn's prize package includes a scholarship to university, a cash prize of GH¢10,000, and gifts from sponsors. Overjoyed with her achievement, Joycelyn thanked her school, supporters, and expressed appreciation to the Asantehene for initiating the challenge.

She urged her peers to take their education seriously and remain focused. The Hene of the Ashanti Kingdom, Nana Prof. Oheneba Baochie-Adjei, praised the initiative and emphasized the importance of reading and education in nurturing a strong reading culture and developing intellectual abilities among young people. He highlighted how reading in both local dialect and English helps bridge the gap between indigenous and modern culture.