To mark International Literacy Day on 9 September 2026, Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) campus radio hosted a roundtable discussion that brought together academic leaders, library professionals, and educators to address critical reading challenges and showcase impactful community literacy initiatives. The discussion took place at the MUT Radio live studio. The panel featured Dr Mfanozelwe Shozi, representing the Centre for Community Engagement and Development (CEAD); Masande Mafanga from MUT Library Services; Ntokozo Zulu from the MUT Communication Department; and Lindeni Mkhize, representing Sukuma Primary School.
Aligning with the 2026 global theme, “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity,” the conversation focused on taking stock of literacy progress, addressing persistent educational challenges, and promoting lifelong reading habits in an era dominated by social media and Artificial Intelligence (AI). The panellists emphasised that while AI tools can assist with schoolwork, they must be used ethically, noting that digital content should complement, not replace, deep reading for academic and personal growth.
The event held regional significance given eThekwini Municipality’s status as a UNESCO City of Literature, the first city in Africa to receive the designation, serving as a call to action for local institutions across Durban, Umlazi Township and Pinetown.
The discussion highlighted two major University-community partnerships launched in response to stark statistics from the Progress in International Reading Literacy (PIRLS) study, which revealed that roughly 78% of South African Grade 4 learners lack basic reading comprehension skills, compared to just 4% globally.
Mkhize emphasised that literacy is foundational across all academic subjects, from understanding word problems in Mathematics to navigating everyday life tasks like reading signs, schedules, and medical instructions. Mkhize shared that engagement with MUT’s reading initiatives enabled her school to secure a top 10 position in the International Reading Riot Competition, earning recognition from the KZN Department of Education. Participating schools have since adopted extended morning reading, peer tutoring, and assembly-based thematic reading.
Extending beyond traditional reading and writing, MUT Library Services highlighted that modern literacy requires evaluating and applying information ethically. Through ongoing awareness campaigns, resource displays, and information literacy workshops, the university continues to drive continuous learning, equipping learners and students with the critical skills required for long-term academic and economic success.
MUT’s efforts at highlighting the importance of reading is not an unfamiliar act. The University has been driving literacy efforts for some time. For instance, in 2022, it’s CEAD launched a Community Engagement Project that deals directly with the issue of reading at primary school level. Participating schools include Sukuma, Embonini, Ngelosi, Emthethweni, and Umgijimi in Umlazi, alongside Chief Lokothwayo, Mariannridge, Nonopha Senior, KwaManzini, Kwacutshwayo, and St Wendelin’s Junior Primary in Pinetown. In April 2024 the University launched Fundanathi Literacy Project; the participants in this project are Sizwakele, Ngqayizivele, Zwelesethembiso, and Bavumile primary schools, the project works alongside eThekwini Municipality Libraries, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education and Van Schaik Bookstore.