Harpo Primary School continues to strengthen its reading culture through meaningful literacy initiatives. The school recently hosted a vibrant Read Aloud event in celebration of World Read Aloud Day under the theme “Celebrate Learning.”

Community Leaders Rally Behind Literacy

The event brought together officials from various government departments and organisations to promote the importance of reading. Mayor of AbaQulusi Local Municipality Sifiso Mkwanazi, Ward Councillor Lambiso, along with other municipal representatives, attended in support of the initiative, demonstrating strong community backing for literacy development.

Learners Showcase Talent and Inclusivity

Learners from Harpo Primary and neighbouring schools — Besterspruit Primary School, Inkanyiso Special School and Filidi Secondary School — confidently took to the stage to read aloud in English, isiZulu and Afrikaans. Some learners also showcased their communication skills through sign language, highlighting inclusivity and diversity in literacy.

A local librarian shared that AbaQulusi Local Municipality has four libraries available to the community and encouraged learners to make full use of these valuable resources. She further urged parents and teachers to nurture a culture of reading by spending at least 10 minutes each day reading with children.

Poetry and Powerful Messages

Durban-based poet Siyabonga Mpungose captivated the audience with powerful performances. Emphasising the lifelong value of reading, he said, “Education and reading will always be in fashion. Reading is very important — every book is new when it has not been read. Use any book in front of you to acquire knowledge, as this builds literature and provides accurate information.”

He further inspired learners by explaining how reading and speaking skills can create opportunities. “Some of us do not have 9-to-5 jobs or do hard labour, but we live through our speaking and reading skills. This talent can put food on the table if you have love and passion for it,” he said, before concluding with another poem and demonstrating creative wordplay techniques.

Department of Education’s Mandate

Mr Mavundla from the Department of Education addressed learners on the department’s mandate, encouraging academic excellence and character development.

“As the department, we are mandated to do two things. Firstly, to produce learners who think far, smart and sharp — learners who can contribute to the economy of South Africa. Learners must not only read with understanding but develop minds capable of producing solutions for society,” he said.

He added that schools must also develop good citizens. “We are mandated to produce learners with good character and obedience. When you read, you cannot think average — literacy shifts mediocre boundaries.”

A Collective Effort