On 13 September 2024, the Department of Nature Conservation and the Department of Communications, in collaboration with the Department of Education in Umlazi, Van Schaik Bookstore, and the Department of Libraries, held a Reading Competition at Bavumile Senior Primary School in Umlazi Township. Dr Thanda Mbanjwa, a Department of Nature Conservation Lecturer, said the event marked a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to address literacy challenges and enhance the reading and writing skills of primary school learners in the region.
Dr Mbanjwa said the primary objective of this reading initiative was to combat the growing problem of illiteracy among young learners, specifically those preparing for the transition to high school. Dr Mbanjwa said: “By fostering a culture of reading, we aim to enhance literacy skills, including reading comprehension and writing ability, in primary school learners. We want to instil a lifelong passion for reading and knowledge acquisition in the learners and empower them with the tools to excel academically and in life, preparing them for the challenges of high school education and beyond.” The department also wanted to create awareness of the importance of literacy as a foundation for further learning and personal growth and to strengthen the learners’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills through exposure to diverse reading materials.
Another staff member involved in the initiative is Dr Nobuhle Ndaba from the Department of Communication. Dr. Mbanjwa said they had worked together with stakeholders from the Department of Education, Van Schaik Bookstore, and the Department of Libraries to ensure that the learners have access to quality reading materials and resources. He said this reading project is expected to have a long-lasting impact on the learners. “By nurturing early literacy skills, learners are better equipped to excel in all subject areas, improving overall academic performance. Also, engaging with reading materials and participating in reading activities will build learners’ confidence, which will, in turn, enhance their ability to communicate effectively,” said Dr Mbanjwa.
Dr Mbanjwa said the initiative marked a decisive step toward addressing community literacy challenges. He said that by uniting the efforts of Mangosuthu University of Technology, the Department of Education in Umlazi, and the Department of Libraries, they have laid the groundwork for transforming the lives of young learners. “This initiative is more than just a project; it is an investment in our children’s future, equipping them with the tools they need to thrive academically and socially,” he said. He said the ability to read is a gateway to knowledge, opportunity, and personal growth.