New chapter in kids’ reading campaign
THE state of literacy in South Africa in relation to the use of African languages in schools will come under the spotlight when Nal’ibali gathers like-minded literacy activists.
They will also discuss the role young people can play in promoting a reading culture among children.
Part of the panel’s discussions will include promoting reading as a hobby.
The event will be held at the Centre for the Book today as part of Nal’ibali reading-for-enjoyment campaign in the spirit of Youth Month.
The panel will include activists passionate about youth, language and advocacy work. One of the panelists, Liziwe Ndalana, said: “A love of storytelling and sharing stories is inherited by us South Africans.
“To cultivate a culture of reading in South Africa, we need more young people to become role models.
“I am extremely passionate about literacy and would like to activate a love for books in children, especially children from townships.”
The improvement literacy rate is a universal concern, according to Nal’ibali.
“As a nation we can draw inspiration from other countries that have called on activists to resolve issues around literacy,” read the statement.
Nal’ibali digital strategist Thembakuye Madlala said: “Considering how South Africa became a democratic nation, and the struggle people overcame in hope of a better future for generations to come, we cannot deny the power activism hold in changing the social landscape.”
Madlala said a sentiment shared by many people was that of “education in crisis”.
“One of the ways in which the country can overcome this is by instilling a sense of activism and responsibility in people of all ages in our communities,” said Madlala.
Nal’ibali uses its FUNda Leaders network to aspire children to succeed through storytelling and reading.
FUNda Leaders are everyday South Africans who have raised their hands to help ensure that all children are given better skills in reading.
They do this by providing their free time on a volunteer basis to tell stories to children in the quest to get children to make reading a priority.
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