Young scholars shine at FAK National History Olympiad

In an era where Afrikaner history is increasingly sidelined in school syllabuses, the Federation of Afrikaans Cultural Associations (FAK) continues to spark young South Africans’ interest in their heritage. This year, more than 1,000 learners from 54 schools across the country participated in the FAK National History Olympiad, a testament to the enduring enthusiasm for history among Afrikaans youth.

The 2025 Olympiad was held in partnership with the Movement for Christian National Education (BCVO) and Akademia, a collaboration that significantly expanded the reach and impact of the event.

Among the standout performers was Daniel de Bruin, a Grade 4 pupil at Laerskool Middelburg, who was crowned national winner in the primary school category. Nicole White, a Grade 11 learner from Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool Pretoria, emerged as the overall winner and top performer in the high school division.

Despite consistently scoring above 90% in history, de Bruin said his win came as a surprise. “I couldn’t believe I had won,” he admitted. He credits his passion for history to his grandfather, Danie, who shared countless stories with him, and he also enjoys reading history books in his spare time.

White attributes her love of history to her parents, who encouraged her to question and explore the past. “It started with a tour through the United States and Europe, places rich with centuries of history,” she said. “But South African history has always been closest to my heart. Visiting the battlefields of the Drakensberg and Bloedrivier, and climbing Majuba with my father, gave me a deeper appreciation for my people’s perseverance and courage.”

A journey through history

Now in its sixth year, the FAK History Olympiad provides learners from both primary and high schools with the chance to explore the depth and richness of Afrikaner history through engaging themes. Age-appropriate topics include the settlement at the Cape, the Great Trek, the discovery of gold, the Rebellion, the formation of the two Boer Republics, the Anglo-Boer War and its aftermath, and the world wars.

The goal, organisers emphasise, is not merely rote memorisation of facts, but helping young people build a broader understanding of their identity. “When a Grade 4 learner begins participating in the History Olympiad, they embark on a journey that grows year by year,” explained Barry Müller, national head of community, history, and ad hoc projects at the FAK. “By the time they reach matric, they don’t just have a thorough understanding of Afrikaner history—they also have the insight to piece together the bigger picture, like assembling a complex puzzle over time.”

Müller added, “In a time when cultural identity is often under pressure, the FAK History Olympiad gives Afrikaans children the opportunity to be proud of their heritage and to understand that their history holds a valid and valuable place in South Africa’s broader story. History is not just something locked in books; it is a living part of who we are. When children learn where they come from, they gain a clearer sense of who they are and where they are headed. It instils courage, pride, and identity.”

Learning and winning

Participation in the online Olympiad is free, making it both an educational adventure and a competition. “Children learn about their ancestors, the sacrifices made, and how these stories shaped our existence. We are heirs to a history written with blood, faith, and perseverance,” said Müller.

While substantial prizes are awarded to winners in each age category, the FAK emphasises that the greatest reward is the knowledge itself, discovering who you are.

Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool Pretoria expressed pride in White’s achievement. Colleen Naude, the school’s marketing and liaison officer, highlighted the value of historical knowledge. “We are extremely proud of Nicole. Her success in the FAK History Olympiad also reminds us of the importance of history as a school subject, fostering understanding, critical thinking, and knowledge of our past,” she said.

Preparations for next year’s Olympiad are already underway, with entries opening on 2 February. Müller promises it will be a year like no other. With growing school participation, support from organisations like BCVO and Akademia, and the FAK’s ongoing commitment to cultural heritage, the message is clear: Afrikaans history continues to thrive in the hearts of the next generation.