In celebration of International Literacy Month, GrandWest, in collaboration with NPO Living Through Learning and Miss South Africa Natasha Joubert, embarked on a heartwarming mission to foster a love for reading among Cape Town’s children.
The initiative saw the donation of four mobile libraries brimming with 600 books and essential accessories, valued at R170 000, to Belhar Primary School. This philanthropic endeavour is part of GrandWest’s larger R438 000 commitment to literacy projects in Cape Town schools for 2023.
The literacy celebration at Belhar Primary School was unforgettable, with Miss South Africa Natasha Joubert and GrandWest’s team reading captivating stories to eager learners.
The day was packed with fun-filled activities, from face painting and juggling to balloon sculptures, dancing, and even a mesmerising magic show. The children also savoured a delectable meal prepared by GrandWest’s talented chef.
According to IOL, GrandWest’s General Manager, Mervyn Naidoo, emphasised the importance of instilling a passion for reading in children.
He explained that when youngsters grasp the idea that they can embark on extraordinary adventures through the pages of a book, a deep love for reading blossoms. GrandWest is committed to inspiring this love for reading and knowledge.
Furthermore, GrandWest is actively supporting the Read to Rise programme during September. This initiative aims to provide grade two learners in five primary schools with access to books. GrandWest’s generous donation of R40 000 will not only supply 800 books but also fund interactive classroom sessions involving reading, learning and singing.
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Naidoo highlighted the alarming fact that children in grades one to four should ideally read 40 to 50 books annually.
However, the reality is far different, with these young learners often reading only one to two books a year. GrandWest’s contributions to literacy projects aim to change this narrative by promoting reading at a young age.
The supported schools include Northway Primary School in Ravensmead, De Waveren Primary School in Ruyterwacht, as well as Caradale, Eisleben and Seaview Primary Schools in Mitchell’s Plain.
In Elsies River, GrandWest donated almost R179 000 to Valhalla Primary School to enhance the Reading Adventure Room. This initiative, in partnership with NPO Living Through Learning, seeks to revitalise literacy among educators and students in underprivileged schools.
Managing Director of Living Through Learning, Sonja Botha, expressed her organisation’s commitment to improving education in South Africa. Through their unique teaching methodology and dedicated staff, they aim to make a meaningful difference, one child and one educator at a time.
In Athlone, 38 children residing at St. Francis Children’s Home were treated to a refurbished library, thanks to GrandWest’s generous donation of R48 200. This charitable act was further enriched by an outing to GrandWest, where the children received tokens from the Magic Company and enjoyed a meal at the Spur.
Mervyn Naidoo concluded by expressing GrandWest’s hopes that their support for various literacy projects has created fun and inspiring spaces that kindle a lifelong love of reading among children.
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Picture: Andrew Ebrahim / Unsplash