A sustained reading culture wherein parents read books to their children daily or vice versa, can positively influence children's character and perceptions towards their peers thereby shaping their empathy, moral values, and emotional growth, claim reading experts. The impact of book-based knowledge took centre stage this week, with activities centred around National Book Week aimed at promoting a national reading revolution.
Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube, joined by AVBOB Chief Executive Officer, Mr Eugene Strauss and Managing Director for Oxford University Press, Ms Karen Simpson, handed over two trolley libraries to Mengu Primary School and a container library to Thongwana High School in the Umkhanyakude Education District, KwaZulu-Natal on 7 September 2026. The handover ceremonies signalled the Department of Basic Education’s (DBE’s) commitment towards improving the level of reading proficiency amongst learners, with a specific focus on learners in the Foundation Phase.
According to AVBOB and Oxford University Press representatives, the promotion of a reading culture is one of the most critical interventions required in enriching children's vocabulary whilst they are still young. They, however, made it clear that parental involvement in cultivating a culture of reading and children’s convenience in accessing age-appropriate reading materials at home and school were indispensable approaches in improving the level of literacy in the early grades. The mobilisation of parents and communities in supporting schools to promote a passion for reading in children is underpinned by the South African National Literacy Strategy and Plan: 2024-2030. The Strategy mandates the Basic Education Sector to involve parents and communities in the entire reading revolution to turn children into avid readers. The success of any reading programme needs to connect the learners’ homes and schools. The availability of more and varied materials in African languages is a gateway to involving more parents to help with reading homework and reading for fun. Community reading programmes such as book club initiatives become critical avenues for involving community members in reading development initiatives.
In her reflections, Minister Gwarube applauded AVBOB for its support in promoting the importance of literacy in South African communities: “Government has a responsibility to provide quality public education, but we cannot do this work alone. Partnerships with organisations such as AVBOB allow us to extend the reach of educational resources and accelerate interventions that support learning. What is particularly important about this initiative is its reach. Quality educational resources must reach every part of South Africa, including our rural districts. Where a learner lives should never determine the quality of education, they receive or the opportunities available to them. These trolley libraries are a practical demonstration of what partnerships can achieve, bringing books closer to children and making reading a visible and everyday part of school life”.
The handover ceremony was twinned with the Minister’s address to the 1,018 Grade 12 learners at Thongwana High School. In her address, Minister Gwarube acknowledged the school principal’s excellent leadership and urged him to continue working hard in ensuring that the Class of 2026 achieve quality results in the upcoming National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. In response to the container library handover at Thongwana High School, Minister Gwarube highlighted: “Learners, as you use this library, I want you to remember that every book you open can expand what you know and what you believe is possible for your future development. Strong literacy skills improve your ability to understand Mathematics and Science, engage with technology, communicate effectively, and succeed across the curriculum”.