Parents should encourage children to read

This article is quite revealing. It paints the dilemma of many an African nation. In my view, this reading campaign should begin in the homes.

Parents should start by nurturing this culture among the children, using whatever few reading materials they have – old news papers (which they can collect from other places – in case they cannot afford to buy), the bible – at least most homes in Christian dominated communities tend to have one etc.

However, this can only be done if all parties get to appreciate the beauty of reading and developing a reading culture. Schools could also pick it up from where the parents stop. In Uganda, we are trying to build that culture, we may not be there yet but at least there is some progress. In most communities, especially in the central region, it is quite common to find several people reading a newspaper written in their local dialect.

Two things stand out from the article that need to be addressed; availability of materials and having them at affordable prices – but even then, people need to begin with the little that they already have, if the culture of reading is to be nurtured, they need to understand that reading empowers and emancipates citizens, and it brings people together.

As a way of improving the image of reading, children need to know that reading can not only be fun, but that it is also a great way to spend your leisure time and that it is valuable and rewarding. Reading communicates life and hope and the belief in the potential to grow and change. Failure to read breeds ignorance and ignorance is the mother of all evils.