Reading Promotion Campaign at Njewa Primary School: Read today for a Brighter tomorrow
Today, Njewa Primary School was abuzz with excitement as the National Library Service (NLS), in collaboration with Book Aid International, organized a reading promotion campaign. This important event aimed at fostering a culture of reading among students and community members in the area.
The campaign, which was held with the continued support from Book Aid International, brought together several schools, each eager to participate and engage in activities that promote literacy. The schools that took part in the event included Mwera Community Adult Learning School, Njewa Primary and Community Day Secondary School, Chitedze Primary and Community Day Secondary School, Chitipi Primary School, Sankhani Primary School, and Airbase Primary School.
In addition to the participating schools, we were privileged to host esteemed guests of honor. Madam S. Nthiko, the Director of Education, Sports, and Culture (East), graced the event with her presence. Mr. Mpinganjira, the Primary Education Advisor (PEA) of Njewa Zone, also attended, lending his support to this important cause.
Throughout the day, students, teachers, and community members engaged in various activities, including pavilion presentations, reading sessions, spelling bees, music, drama, arithmetic quiz, general questions quiz and discussions about the importance of literacy. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm as children discovered the joy of reading and the endless possibilities that books can offer.Following the activities, schools that performed exceptionally well were awarded gifts and medals. The gifts included school supplies such as notebooks, pens, and educational books. The top-performing schools received medals, with the overall winning school being honored with both a medal and a trophy
In her speech, Acting National Librarian Mrs. Bonney Sangole emphasized the critical role that both schools and communities play in shaping children’s lives through reading. “The schools and the community have a great responsibility in nurturing a love for reading in our children,” Mrs. Sangole said. She outlined several ways to enhance children’s reading habits, which included reading aloud, encouraging children to read for adults, and reading together as a family. These activities, she noted, not only improve literacy but also strengthen the bond between parents and children. Mrs. Sangole also expressed heartfelt gratitude to Book Aid International for their unwavering support, which has been instrumental in providing reading materials and creating opportunities for children to access books. “We are truly grateful to Book Aid International for their continued partnership and support. It is because of them that we can hold events like this, empowering our children with the gift of literacy,” she added.
Madam Nthiko, in her address, emphasized the critical role of reading in education and personal development, noting that literacy opens doors to knowledge and opportunities. She praised the efforts of the National Library Service and Book Aid International for their continued dedication to improving access to reading materials and encouraging a love for books in Malawi.
The reading promotion campaign was a success, and it served as a reminder of the vital role that libraries and educational institutions play in shaping the future of our youth. Through initiatives like these, the National Library Service, with the support of partners like Book Aid International, continues to make a lasting impact on literacy and education in Malawi.
As the day came to a close, participants left the event feeling inspired and motivated to keep reading and learning. The campaign was a testament to the power of collaboration and community in promoting literacy and empowering the next generation of learners.
