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As part of activities to mark the International Literacy Day, the Zaccheus Onumba Dibiaezue Memorial Libraries (ZODML), National Library of Nigeria (NLN) and Book Aid International UK, collaborate to boost reading culture among school kids.
The occasion was hosted at National Library of Nigeria, Lagos office and it attracted stakeholders, university don, Dr. Olatunbosun Taofeek, the Deputy Director/ Head of Branch, National Library of Nigeria, Lagos, Mrs. Obianuju Onuorah Obianuju, Head of Catalog, Mrs. Bisiola Bilewu, local government officials, school kids and Chairperson and Co-founder of ZODML, Mrs. Ifeoma Esiri.
Aside reading some literature books, the school kids were lectures on how technology has transformed learning and digital treasure hunt. The theme is about accessing books via digital link.
In her welcome remarks, Mrs. Onuorah said the International Literacy Day is observed annually on September 8th and the occasion was first held in 1967 by UNESCO to remind the world that literacy is a foundational human right and a pathway to dignity, opportunity and equality.
She disclosed that the literacy celebration opened the door to education, creativity and lifelong learning for children and laid the foundation for inclusion, sustainability and progress.
Onuorah explained that the theme for 2025 edition is ‘Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era’, which highlights the importance of literacy in the digital age and the need to harness technology to promote education and socio- economic development.
“In today’s digital world, literacy encompasses not only traditional reading and writing skills but also digital literacy. It is essential to equip everyone including students the skills to navigate, evaluate and create digital contents.’’
According to her, the National Library of Nigeria and Zacchaeus Onumba Dibiaezue Memorial Library are playing pivotal roles in the promotion of literacy and access to information.
She added: “Our institutions serve as a hub for knowledge innovation and community engagement. We are committed to supplying literacy initiatives and providing resources that empower Nigerians to achieve their full potentials in the digital era.’’
The NLN deputy director informed the school kinds that series of activities are lined for the education, which include, pep talk on the importance of reading in the digital era, read aloud using different formats, interactive workshop, panel discussion on the theme of the day and many others.
Dr. Taofeek informed the school children that the advent of technology has made reading easy, faster and availability of many materials.
He charged them to take advantage of technology to read several books on online, adding, ‘’this is an age where students don’t wait for their teachers to provide learning materials.’’
Chairman of ZODML, Mrs. Esiri, said she is not impressed with literacy level in the country and that in some rural areas, many children cannot read.
Esiri disclosed that literacy level is low compared to the population of the country and urged government to focus on the problems and adequate funds be voted for education.
“In rural areas, technology is available via the use of cell phones, which can be used for digital learning by both young and old. Digital learning has come to stay. It will expose students to many educational resources. Technology has taken over the way people learn,’’ she noted.
She commended Book Aid International UK and the National Library of Nigeria for collaborating with ZODML to mark the International Literacy Day. She added that 100 pupils have learnt how to use technology to access educational materials.
