Reading programme helps to improve literacy in Mams
Schools in Mamelodi, Nellmapius and Eersterust received academic materials in the final phase of three-year Rally to Read education project this week.

A 25-year-plus programme continues to improve literacy levels and the love of reading among children of Mamelodi.
Primary school learners from Mamelodi, Nellmapius and Eersterust were recently encouraged to continue reading books through the Rally to Read programme, a collaboration between the Department of Education and Ford SA.
Department officials and Ford employees participated in delivering academic materials to Zamintuthuko, Boikgantsho, Vukuzenzele, Nantes and PS Fourie primary schools.
Each school is supported for a minimum of three years, with ongoing teacher training and development.
Studies show that participation in the project narrows the reading gap for children in under-resourced and rural communities.
The programme involves the use of digital literacy tools, such as smart projectors, to ensure up-to-date teaching methods and interactive learning experiences.
Ford SA government affairs and transformation director, Esther Buthelezi said the project is a reminder of how powerful education can be.
Buthelezi said this is the third year and final year of the Rally to Read programme, which focuses on enhancing and deepening literacy in the Intermediate Phase.
“It’s not just about bringing books and resources to schools. It’s about instilling hope in children, their families and communities, showing them that a brighter future is possible and that we all have a role to play in making it happen.”
The project has organised reading resources, teacher training in language methodologies and digital literacy, as well as parental engagement in their children’s learning.
These efforts are carried out in collaboration with the Department of Basic Education, school management teams, and school governing bodies, ensuring educators receive continued training and support from field staff.
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