Koforidua: The Eastern Regional branch of the Ghana Library Authority (GhLA), in collaboration with the New Juaben South Municipal Education Directorate, has launched a literacy initiative called 'Friday Morning Reading' for basic schools in the municipality. The project aims to integrate reading into pupils' weekly schedules, providing access to a wide array of reading materials every Friday morning through the Mobile Library Service.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Dziblim Alhassan Betintiche, the Executive Director of the Ghana Library Authority, emphasized the importance of reading as the cornerstone of lifelong learning, imagination, human capital, and national development. He cited research from 1980 by the British Council and the GhLA that indicated a decline in literacy levels in Ghana, attributed to the lack of a robust reading culture among children.
Mr. Betintiche highlighted the global correlation between strong literacy skills and academic success, critical thinking, confidence, and lifelong opportunities. He stressed that fostering a strong reading culture requires deliberate efforts, including consistent exposure to books and guided reading, which can enhance vocabulary, comprehension, and the overall interest in learning.
Addressing educators, Mr. Betintiche urged them to make the project engaging and inclusive, noting that their enthusiasm and guidance would significantly influence pupils' reading experiences. He stated that the success of the initiative would be measured not only by improved literacy scores but also by the development of confident, critically thinking children with a lasting relationship with books.
Mr. Mustapha Haruna Appiah, the New Juaben South Municipal Education Director, encouraged pupils to view each book as an opportunity to unlock new knowledge. He emphasized the importance of investing in reading and libraries as investments in curiosity, opportunity, and the future of communities.
The launch event, attended by pupils from Koforidua Presbyterian Basic Schools, Nana Kwaku Boateng Basic School, and Calvary Academy, featured musical book activities, reading, and spelling sessions. Awards and certificates were presented to the Best Student Patrons of the Library for 2025, the Best Schools utilizing the Mobile Library Service in 2025, and the Most Institution Advocate.
In a related development, Mr. Betintiche, alongside Mr. Evans Korletey-Tene, the Eastern Regional Director of the GhLA, inaugurated a refurbished library at Asokore. Mr. Betintiche detailed ongoing initiatives in the region, such as constructing a modern community library in Kukurantumi, establishing libraries for clusters of basic schools, and training school librarians. Additional efforts include providing technical support to schools, donating children's reading materials, and offering digital skills training.