To unlock the reading passion and public speaking potential of young Ghanaians from underserved communities this International Literacy Day, Standard Chartered Bank Ghana PLC hosted a literacy clinic to encourage reading and introduce the youth to essential 21st-century technology that enhances public speaking.

The event was hosted in collaboration with United Way Ghana.

Employee volunteers engaged the students in reading activities, guiding them through challenging texts, and helping them identify, understand and pronounce new words. This foundation in reading comprehension set the stage for the program's innovative centerpiece: a practical public speaking masterclass.

The masterclass dubbed “Speak Like a Pro” introduced students to fundamental public speaking techniques. What truly set this experience apart was the hands-on training with teleprompters – a tool commonly used by professional speakers and newscasters. This exposure to modern speech delivery technology not only enhanced the students' public speaking skills but also boosted their confidence in using digital tools for communication.

"Our goal is to support these children in developing not just reading skills, but also the art of public speaking," explained Asiedua Addae, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand & Marketing. “In today’s digital world, the ability to communicate effectively across various platforms is crucial. By introducing them to tools like teleprompters, we’re preparing them for future academic and professional success, she added"

The event concluded with an inspirational tour of the bank's floorhead Office, including a visit to the CEO's office. Students were captivated by the modern workspace and beautiful art pieces, providing them with aspirational glimpses into potential future careers.

This initiative is part of Standard Chartered's broader commitment to literacy and youth empowerment. The bank offers its staff three days of paid leave annually to volunteer their skills in community projects to give back to their communities.

"We believe that effective communication is a powerful lever for success," said Asiedua Addae. "By combining traditional literacy skills with modern public speaking techniques, we're equipping these young people to confidently express themselves in any setting – be it a classroom, a boardroom, or a digital platform."

Standard Chartered Bank Ghana calls on other corporate institutions to join in supporting youth literacy and communication skills, especially for those from underserved communities.

As the world becomes increasingly digital, ensuring that all young people have the tools to articulate their ideas effectively is more important than ever.