International Literacy Day to be marked by “Drop everything and read!” book drive

Guyana’s Education Ministry will be hosting a “drop everything and read!” programme and book drive on Thursday, September 8, 2022, in observance of International Literacy Day.

It was disclosed that a group of readers has volunteered to participate in the reading programme, including Minister, Priya Manickchand at 11:00 a.m.

“Reading adds value to any individual’s life. It’s a beautiful thing. It really changes one’s mindset and mood. So, I am encouraging you all to read,” Manickchand noted in a prelude to the programme.

It was pointed out that the public is encouraged to donate any new/undamaged books to offices of the education ministry to ensure others get an opportunity to read.

As such, drop-off location will be at the Department of Education- Georgetown book distribution unit.

It was revealed that donated books will be available for the general public on International Literacy Day and could be uplifted for free.

“In the ministry, we are very committed to in the next four years [of] making sure every child in grade four, at least by grade four, could read and understand what they’re reading,” Manickchand said.

She continued, “And even as we roll that programme out, we’re going to be rolling out Adult Literacy programmes. We are going to change literacy rate in this country. We’re going to change how many people can read and understand what they’re reading.”

The education minister said that in accordance with the theme for Education Month: “Transforming Education”, government has initiated the events on International Literacy Day to coincide with the education ministry’s sector plan of eliminating illiteracy, enhancing tolerance and modernising education.