Deputy Minister for Education, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, has reaffirmed the government’s dedication to fostering a culture of reading among young learners.

In a speech read on his behalf at the finals of the Second National Reading Festival in Accra, Rev. Fordjour said, “We are dedicated to providing resources like libraries filled with diverse books, trained educators who inspire curiosity, and programmes that celebrate literacy in all its forms.”

The festival, themed “Reading Treasures: Uncovering Hidden Riches,” serves as an annual celebration organised by the Ministry of Education, Ghana Education Service (GES), and the Ghana Library Authority (GhLA), in collaboration with USAID through the Strengthening Accountability in Ghana’s Education System (SAGES) initiative.

Beginning at the Circuit Level, the festival saw winners advance through District, Regional, and finally National stages.

Activities included reading and spelling competitions, poetry recitals, speeches, cultural displays, and exhibitions.

“Each Book Is a Key to Unlocking New Worlds”

Rev. Fordjour stated the transformative power of books, describing them as pathways to understanding the world and oneself.

The Assin South MP urged communities to embrace reading as an adventurous quest.

He said, “Let us make reading an adventurous quest and turn our neighbourhoods into vibrant hubs of literacy where every child feels inspired to explore the hidden riches within books.”

The Minister called for grassroots efforts to promote literacy, such as organizing school reading challenges, creating community book exchanges, and hosting storytelling nights.

The Deputy Minister lauded the collaborative efforts of organizations and individuals partnering with the Ministry to build a culture of reading, highlighting their invaluable contributions to this national mission.

USAID’s $120,000 Commitment to Literacy

Ms. Rasheena Reid, USAID/Ghana Education Office Director, highlighted the U.S. government’s significant support for the festival.

She noted that over $120,000 (equivalent to over GH¢1.9 million) was provided for the 2024 regional and national reading festivals, benefiting 3,388 public primary schools in Ghana’s Northern, North East, Upper East, and Upper West regions.

“In today’s digital age, literacy remains the foundation of all learning. With each book opened, we gain new ideas, cultures, and perspectives on life,” she stated.

Young Readers Shine in National Competition

The festival culminated in a thrilling contest that showcased the remarkable talents of young readers from across Ghana.

• Basic 1 Winners: Master Hallelujah Acquah (Western Region) emerged victorious, followed by Master Bernard Ofori (Bono Region) in second place, and Master Adjei Emmanuel (Ahafo Region) in third.

• Basic 2 Winners: Miss Samuella Essandoh (Central Region) secured first place, with Miss Ama Nyantakyiwaa (Ahafo Region) and Miss Betty A. Ndage (Bono East Region) placing second and third, respectively.

• Basic 3 Winners: Master Eugene Magnus Bart Plange (Western Region) clinched the top spot, followed by Master Destiny Ballans (Bono East) in second place, and Miss Mariam Seidu (Ahafo Region) in third.

“The True Treasure Lies in How We Apply What We Read”

Rev. Fordjour reminded learners that the value of reading extends beyond the pages, urging them to apply the lessons from books to their lives.

“Each book is a key that unlocks new worlds, introduces us to remarkable characters, and unveils profound ideas that can change our lives,” he said.

With collective effort, the festival aims to inspire a new generation of passionate readers, ensuring that every child in Ghana can uncover their own hidden treasures through the power of literacy.