ENGCOBO– The Dr. A.B. Xuma Local Municipality, in partnership with the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) and the Department of Education, successfully hosted a two-day Literacy Day celebration under the theme ‘Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era,’ from 08 to 09 September.
This initiative forms part of government’s broader mandate to build an inclusive and literate society by promoting a culture of reading, writing and lifelong learning across all communities.
The celebration aimed to strengthen intergovernmental collaboration in advancing access to education, particularly in rural areas where literacy remains a key developmental priority.
Delivering the keynote address at the event MEC for Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture(DSRAC) in the Eastern Cape Sibulele Ngongo, emphasized the importance of accessible education in rural communities.
“Education must be accessible to all, regardless of geography. Only then can we curb the migration to cities in search of better opportunities.” She further encouraged both young people and adults to prioritise learning, highlighting the availability of Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET) programmes to support adult literacy and skills development.
Furthmore, DR AB Xuma Acting Mayor Councillor Sandiso Ngxangu, praised the event for its social and economic benefits to Engcobo area. “This celebration was a game-changer for our local economy. We saw a surge in visitors and short-term employment opportunities, it was a welcome surprise for Engcobo to be chosen as the host, as the event is traditionally held elsewhere.”
MEC Ngongo also announced that various resources and initiatives would remain in place beyond the event to help address ongoing community needs.
“We have gifts to leave to you, the people of Dr. A.B. Xuma through these, we aim to meet some of the ongoing challenges you face,” she concluded.
A key highlight of the celebration was the recognition of local book clubs, which have shown measurable success in improving literacy skills among learners.
According to feedback from educators and librarians, participants demonstrated stronger reading confidence, improved writing skills and better articulation.
This success was further proven in the recent Language Programme competition hosted by the Department of Education, where three learners from Njongozabantu Primary School, all active book club members were named winners showcasing the real educational benefits of community-based literacy initiatives.
Photographs: supplied
