THE husband and wife team of Dr Ruan Oostenbrink and Dr Jani Marais, with the help of social worker Portia Marinana, initiated a project to establish a literacy centre in one of the rooms in the paediatrics ward at Dora Nginza Hospital.
The literacy centre is called Ukufunda, which means ‘to learn’ or ‘to read’. It was officially opened on Mandela Day.
The IIE’s Varsity College, Port Elizabeth campus, responded to a call from the Literacy Association of South Africa to assist with developing the centre.
A book drive was held on campus in July and August, which resulted in the campus donating bookshelves and books to Ukufunda.
The Development of Ukufunda as a literacy centre will be an ongoing collaboration with the hope of growing its book collection and making it an inviting space for the little readers.
“The development of the library is an investment in lifelong literacy through developing a love for reading and making sure that every child has access to books in their language of choice. We hope to add educational games and other material in the near future,” said Jamiellah Domingo, The IIE’s Varsity College programme manager for education.
Our students will become regular visitors to assist with covering books and reading to those confined to their beds. Our aim is to work with other literacy organisations in support of this amazing initiative,” said Domingo.
