Set your imagination free

Give a child a book, and you open their eyes to a world where anything is possible with just a sprinkle of imagination.

The newly launched Tongaat reading room aims to expose local pupils to books from an early age, encouraging them to enjoy reading and learning.

The Tongaat Child and Family Welfare Society launched the project on May 31, in partnership with the Teena Karrim Foundation and the Manilall Valjee Ghandhi Desai High Reunion committee.

Visiting the centre at the Truro Empowerment Centre, it was wonderful to see children poring over the pages of 151 colourful books donated by the committee.

Naeema Khan, who monitors the reading room and adjacent computer and homework centre, said it is fulfilling to watch children develop.

“All our services are free and many schools around here do not have computer facilities, so there are always pupils here. They come from as far as Phoenix, and we try our best to help. The difference I have seen with the children who come regularly makes everything worth it.”

The empowerment centre also runs a domestic workers empowerment programme.

“The place is here to uplift our community. Many of the children may go home to empty houses, and it is much safer for them here to do their homework, where they are supervised and we can help.”

The reading room is operational from Monday to Friday, from 2pm to 5pm. It is also open on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm.

For more information contact Beryl Moodley or Noni Ghanyile on 032-9441514.