READING is important for future leaders, young entrepreneurs, and academic experts.
But when a community lacks resources to promote reading, the culture of learning may not exist.
In Alexandra, east of Joburg, Alex Run, an organisation aiming to change the situation, has partnered with DStv telenovela Gomora to launch Read Alex.
The initiative aims to provide children with books and space for reading and studying.
According to Alex Run Junior director Siphiwe Nkosi, the programme will run in three phases.
The first phase is a reading corner set up, implemented on 19 August, so children can spend an additional hour reading after their weekend athletics training.
This will then be followed by phase two, where a permanent Library that kids can use for homework and studying throughout the week will launch in January 2024.
And finally, phase 3 will happen on June 2024 when Read Alex will introduce school competitions that encourage reading competitions such as Spelling Bee and Public Speaking.
"We are promoting a culture of reading. We are building with the kids. We have moved from running with kids to reading with kids, and will move to a permanent library. Children will take ownership of this place, and I hope they will understand that this library is built on their needs," Siphiwe said.
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The latest Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) report showed that 81% of grade 4 pupils in Mzansi can't read for meaning. This is an increase from 78% in 2016.
To address this problem and promote a reading culture, Alex Run has come to the party.
"Read Alex is just the beginning, as we aim to grow our plans towards nurturing and empowering our children beyond the athletics tracks.
"Reading gives children an opportunity to not only increase their literacy skills, but to unlock their young minds and expand their imaginations far beyond the pages. We look forward to growing the project alongside the community," said Leanne Kumalo, executive producer of Gomora.
Sinanda Sbanda, a mum of a grade 7 pupil, believes this initiative will help her child focus on schoolwork and not other activities such as dating.
"Education is key, and if they can get that within the community, our hearts will be filled with joy," she said.
Meanwhile, education activist Hendrick Makaneta believes libraries are the first step towards investing in community growth.
However, efforts should not only end with opening a library but also motivate and inspire pupils to actively use resources through programmes such as the Read-To-Lead campaign introduced by the Basic Department of Education.
