The Namibian Library and Archive Service held a pre-launch event for the National Readathon Month celebration with a focus on mental wellness and improving learner literacy.

Reading plays a fundamental role as a practical life skill, boosting mental stimulation, promoting learning and improving focus and concentration.

Speaking on behalf of the Education Minister was the director of Namibia Library and Archive Services, Sara Negumbo, who reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to fostering a culture of reading among Namibians, emphasising the inclusion of children with special needs.

"Alarmingly, evidence has shown that a number of learners are progressing to grade four with inadequate reading abilities. This includes many of our children with special education needs, who deserve the same opportunities to thrive through inclusive and accessible learning support. This is a matter of concern and demands urgent, strategic and coordinated action. In response, the Ministry of Education has instituted a National Literacy and Numeracy Drive, which is aimed at addressing these fundamental learning gaps."

She added that reading lies at the heart of the development agenda, remaining a strategic priority for the Education Ministry.

As part of the event, the Goethe Institute donated books to Dagbeek School as their contribution to promoting a strong reading culture, especially among children.

The Annual Readathon Event will take place in Gobabis between the 22nd and 26th of September.