WATCH: Learners amped to receive information on journalism and reading
Newspapers and articles are powerful tools for learning about the world.
Senior English class learners at Mulbarton Primary School had an opportunity to learn more about the art of journalism and the value of reading on February 4.
Given that the event was World Read Aloud Day, news editor of the Southern Courier and Comaro Chronicle, Lucky Thusi, shared his 18 years of experience in the field.
Mentor teacher, Mrs Nundlal, said she was approached to collaborate with final-year student teacher, Saiushka Balgobind, on a community outreach event.
“I thought that it would be very interesting and beneficial to the learners to meet someone from the community who wrote for the community. The visit to the school was part of the celebration of World Read Aloud Day, with the aim of igniting a love of reading while helping learners understand that reading extends far beyond storybooks.
“By reading aloud and engaging with the learners, the session highlighted how newspapers and articles are powerful tools for learning about the world, developing vocabulary, and building critical thinking skills. Introducing children to age-appropriate news stories helped them see reading as something exciting, relevant, and connected to real life.
“A key purpose of the visit was also to create awareness about the role of journalists and the exciting journey behind the stories we read every day. Learners were encouraged to ask questions, share ideas, and imagine themselves as storytellers and truth-seekers.
@southern.courierSenior English class learners at Mulbarton Primary School had an opportunity to learn more about the art of journalism and the value of reading on February 4. Given that the event was World Read Aloud Day, news editor of the Southern Courier and Comaro Chronicle, Lucky Thusi, shared his 18 years of experience in the field. Full story on southerncourier.co.za
“By connecting reading aloud with journalism, the session aimed to show that strong readers often become strong writers, communicators and informed citizens. The enthusiasm and curiosity shown by the learners reaffirmed the importance of nurturing a reading culture from an early age,” explained Mrs Nundlal.
Thusi noted that the art of journalism and the value of reading are two intertwined pursuits that breathe life into our understanding of the world.
“Journalism, at its core, is about storytelling – uncovering truths, highlighting injustices, and giving voice to the voiceless. But what makes journalism truly impactful? The answer lies in crafting narratives that inform, engage, and challenge.
“Good journalism requires a deep understanding of the world and its complexities. It’s about asking the right questions, digging deeper, and presenting facts in a way that’s both accessible and compelling. Think of investigative reporters who uncover corruption or profiles that humanise statistics – that’s journalism at its best,” he said.
Mrs Nundlal mentioned that as the Grade Six English teacher, she was very impressed with the questions the learners asked.
“One could sense that they were hungry to spend more time listening to a real author/writer/ journalist. This also coincided with what we just covered in our English CAPS syllabus – newspaper articles.
“As teachers, we are constantly seeking meaningful ways to ignite a lasting passion for learning in our learners. This requires moving beyond the traditional confines of the classroom to create engaging experiences that nurture curiosity, build confidence, and develop individuals who are truly learners for life,” she noted.
Reading is the fuel that powers the engine of journalism. Whether it’s current events, history, or fiction, reading broadens people’s perspectives, sparks empathy, and equips readers to engage with the world more meaningfully.
For journalists, reading is non-negotiable – it’s how they stay informed, find story ideas, and understand the tones of the issues they cover.
But it’s not just about journalists; reading enriches everyone. It challenges assumptions, sparks creativity, and connects us across cultures and experiences. In a world drowning in information, reading critically is a superpower.
The symbiosis between journalism and reading is clear: good journalism encourages reading, and reading fuels better journalism. Together, they create a more informed, empathetic and engaged society.
