There's a moment every music teacher knows well. A song comes on, the rhythm is impossible to resist and suddenly the whole class is up, clapping, stomping and singing along without needing to be asked twice. That's the energy behind the Chakalaka Challenge, and we want to see it in classrooms across South Africa.
What is the Chakalaka Challenge?
The Chakalaka Challenge is a national school music competition run by The Ear Academy, built around the song "Boom Chakalaka." Schools and classes across South Africa perform the song in their own way, whether through singing, movement, percussion or a full class performance, and submit a recording for a chance to win R15,000 worth of instruments.
Who can enter the Chakalaka Challenge?
Entry is open to South African schools and classes. Individual entries and AI-generated entries are not permitted. Every entry must feature real students performing as a class.
How do you enter the Chakalaka Challenge?
- Get your class involved in performing "Boom Chakalaka," in whatever way suits your students and your classroom.
- Record your entry.
- Submit it through the official entry page at chakalakachallenge.com.
Once you've entered, share the moment using #ChakalakaChallenge so the wider TEA community can cheer you on.
What can you win in the Chakalaka Challenge?
One winning class will take home R15,000 worth of instruments, provided by our prize partner, Bothners. The prize includes class sets of tuned percussion alongside hand percussion, giving every student the tools to keep making music long after the competition ends.
When does the Chakalaka Challenge open and close?
The Chakalaka Challenge runs from 1 August to 19 September 2026. Entries submitted after 19 September 2026 will not be eligible.
Why is The Ear Academy running the Chakalaka Challenge?
Music comes alive when students get to move, play and perform together, and we know how much energy and creativity SA teachers bring to their classrooms every day. The Chakalaka Challenge gives that energy a stage, and gives one deserving class the tools to take their music further.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Chakalaka Challenge open to all South African schools? Yes. Any South African school or class can enter, at no cost.
Can individual students enter instead of a class? No. Entries must be submitted by a school, class, or group of students not by individual students.
Where do I submit my Chakalaka Challenge entry? Entries are submitted through the official entry page at chakalakachallenge.com, or by email or direct message.
Are AI-generated entries allowed? No. All entries must feature real students performing as a class.
What is the prize for winning the Chakalaka Challenge? The winning class receives R15,000 worth of instruments, including tuned and hand percussion, supplied by Bothners.
What is the closing date for entries? Entries close on 19 September 2026.
