Siphelele Nketo

ON August 27, Umzimvubu libraries together with the Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture; the Department of Education; Alfred Nzo West District; National Education Collaboration Trust; Umzimvubu Local Municipality and the KwaBhaca Library hosted an International Literacy Day programme at KwaBhaca Town Hall.

The programme brought together learners and community members to celebrate literacy and promote the importance of reading and learning under the theme, “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity”. As part of the programme, learners from primary and high school levels participated in a range of activities aimed at testing and developing their language, vocabulary, communication and reading skills. Activities included Word Scramble for Grade 7 learners, Prepared Speech for Grade 10 learners, and Word Association. 

The programme also featured the Mini LIB for the Blind and the Rai-Rai Community Book Club, highlighting the importance of inclusive access to literacy and reading opportunities within communities. 

“The programme is designed to give learners and community members an opportunity to participate in educational and literacy-focused activities while highlighting the role that reading and language development play in empowering people, promoting responsible citizenship, supporting environmental awareness and creating opportunities for prosperity,” said Sindisiwe Maqebhula, the principal librarian for Umzimvubu libraries. 

The school that won in Word Scramble for Grade 7 was St George’s Primary School, while the prepared speech for Grade 10 learners was won by Jojo Senior Secondary. Winning the Word Association challenge for Mini LIB for the Blind was Andiswa Tshabongu from KwaBhaca, and the Rai-Rai Community Book Club event was won by KwaBhaca Community Book Club.