September 21, Urasoe – More than 100 teams from all across Okinawa Prefecture gathered in Urasoe today to participate in the 2nd Annual English Spelling battle. The event, co-sponsored by the Ryukyu Shimpo Newspaper and Consulate General Naha is intended to promote English Language study among younger age groups.

The high turnout is especially notable due to the fact that the threat of H1N1 influenza is causing many other student events to be cancelled. The fact that so many schools chose to participate shows how important this contest is in the minds of educators and students alike. Consulate General Naha is proud to award a $1000 scholarship to the members of the top two teams, Koyo High School, Team A of Yaese town and Uranishi Junior High School, Team Oranges of Urasoe city.