Liberty’s Commitment to Literacy: Celebrating World Read Aloud Day
On the 15th anniversary of World Read Aloud Day, Liberty is joining the global community in commemorating the importance of literacy. In a recent Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) 2021 report, South Africa was ranked last out of 57 countries in terms of literacy. Shockingly, eight out of ten children in South Africa struggle to read by the age of 10, highlighting the urgent need for literacy interventions.
The correlation between literacy levels and economic growth is evident, with studies showing that economies with higher literacy rates tend to experience more robust economic activity. Literacy is not just about reading and writing; it also encompasses the ability to communicate effectively and make sense of the world around us.
Recognizing the critical need to address low literacy levels in South Africa, Liberty has been running a Read Aloud Programme since 2001. Through this initiative, Liberty’s employee volunteers engage with primary school learners in Gauteng, conducting reading sessions at five adopted schools. Over 900 sessions have been held, reaching more than 5,000 students, primarily from non-fee-paying schools in townships.
Noma Matjila, Head of Corporate Social Investment at Liberty, emphasizes the importance of improving literacy to support the national agenda of increasing STEM subject uptake at the high school level. By enhancing literacy skills early on, Liberty aims to build a strong foundation for learners to excel in challenging subjects like science and mathematics.
World Read Aloud Day on 4 February is a momentous occasion for Liberty, as they reflect on the impact of their literacy initiatives. Their commitment to long-term community involvement ensures that the benefits of improved literacy extend beyond individual learners to contribute to the broader economy.
Liberty believes in sustainable community engagement, where their efforts create a ripple effect of positive change. By nurturing literacy skills in young learners, Liberty is paving the way for a brighter future filled with opportunities for success and growth.
