THE Sundays River Valley Municipality (SRVM) Libraries Unit recently made a significant impact with its Read Aloud initiative, commemorating Read Aloud Month that is coming to an end tomorrow, by engaging over 1169 children in the Valley – surpassing their target of 1100.
This initiative aligns with the national campaign theme, “Creating positive experiences for children through reading and stories,” and was aimed at fostering a culture of reading among children.
SRVM spokesperson Zusiphe Jaji said, “Research highlights the benefits of reading aloud, such as enhancing cognitive development and fostering imagination. By building vocabulary and language skills, reading not only cultivates a love for literature but also strengthens the bond between parent and child, creating opportunities for learning and connection. SRVM encourages families to continue this practice beyond the month to instil a lifelong love of reading in children.”
In support of these efforts, the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) hosted a World Read Aloud Day (WRAD) celebration at Holy Cross High School in Mthatha. This event brought together educators, learners, and literacy advocates to emphasise the importance of reading aloud.
World Read Aloud Day, an annual global event marking the start of Reading Aloud Month in February, has been instrumental in inspiring learners and educators to prioritise literacy. In a statement, Curriculum Management Chief Director, Chulekazi Xundu-Bula, noted that WRAD was initiated in 2010 by the nonprofit LitWorld. The Department embraced WRAD to address literacy challenges, especially among learners aged 10 who struggle with reading and writing. “By declaring February as the Month of World Read Aloud, we aim to drive meaningful change,” said Xundu-Bula.
In 2022, the Department launched a comprehensive reading strategy based on four pillars. WRAD focuses on the fourth pillar – ‘Communication, advocacy, and community involvement.’ This pillar unites parents, learners, education officials, and partners, fostering a collective effort to enhance literacy.
“WRAD presents a unique opportunity for our community to come together, take action and acknowledge the critical role reading plays in shaping minds and empowering individuals,” added Xundu-Bula. Linda Gwele, Chief Education Specialist for Foundation Phase, highlighted collaborative dialogues with partners to promote literacy effectively.
Sinoxolo Qungwana, Provincial Administrator from Nal’ibali, expressed pride in contributing to WRAD. Nal’ibali’s reading-for-enjoyment campaign aims to spark a love of reading among children through oral storytelling and book-sharing, creating a culture of reading in homes, schools, and communities. “Schools’ story sessions are a great way to encourage children to develop a love for reading and storytelling,” Qungwana concluded.
