AIFA Reading Society, a registered non-profit organization committed to fostering a reading culture and promoting quality education for sustainable development, joined the rest of the world on September 8, 2022, to mark International Literacy Day with various activities to raise awareness of the importance of literacy as a foundation for sustainable development in Nigeria. The Society appeared on radio and television broadcasts to discuss the 2022 International Literacy Day theme. The Society also held AIFA Book Club sessions for young professionals and friends of the Society.
During the interview with Television Continental News, Dr. Peter Bamkole, Director of the AIFA Reading Society and Director at the Enterprise Development Center, Pan Atlantic University, emphasized the need for literacy to be inclusive and accessible to everyone as equipping children and adults with literacy skills provides them with opportunities that can break the cycle of poverty.
Dr. Bamkole highlighted the importance of Nigeria catching up with using digital tools in learning. According to him, “learning spaces have changed, and we need to do something about it. In the last year, learning has shifted to the online space with a reliance on digital devices. This shows that learning has taken a different turn and the earlier we give attention to these spaces like homes, libraries, book clubs, the better it will be in attaining a more literate society.”
During an interview on Metro 97.7FM Lagos, Joy Lawal, Head of Operations of AIFA Reading Society, called on corporates and individuals to support activities targeted at promoting quality education in Nigeria.
During the AIFA Book Club held for young professionals and friends of AIFA Reading Society, participants were encouraged to collaborate with the Society in pushing the agenda toward a more literate society and they pledged to join hands with AIFA to achieve the objectives of the Society.
AIFA Reading Society, supported by Kenna Partners and Fabian Ajogwu Foundation, celebrates literacy as a means of empowering people. Literacy is integral to education and lifelong learning, as outlined by Sustainable Development Goal 4 – Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
AIFA Reading Society has reached over 100,000 children and adults in Nigeria through its various initiatives including the Book Donation Scheme, Young Writers’ Awards, Calculate to Succeed, AIFA Book Club, Volunteers Teaching Scheme, Evening of Lit and Jazz, and Spreading Cheer. The Society plans to increase its reach in Nigeria as it addresses gaps in the educational sector.
Source: The Guardian
