KCCA to create five model school libraries

Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) is set to create five model school libraries in the five divisions of Kampala, well stocked with study materials to enable learners read widely.

The five schools selected to benefit  include; Biina Islamic Primary School in Nakawa division, St. Paul's Ggaba Demonstration P/S in Makindye Division, Lubiri P/S in Rubaga division, Kyagwe Road P/S in Central Division and Kawempe church of Uganda P/S in Kawempe division.

Robert Kayiki, officer adult Library, directorate of Education and Social Services, KCCA  said the libraries will create an opportunity for the learners to access reading materials to be able to read widely not only to pass examinations but also read for additional knowledge, leisure and pleasure.

"Most schools in Kampala do not have functional libraries, but rather stores of books. We want to create a facility that is exemplary for other schools in each division. We want these model libraries to be accessed by learners and other members of the school, learners from other schools and neighboring communities," said Kayiki.

Kayiki explained that the procurement process for different equipment including furniture, appropriate reading materials, computers with internet connectivity is ongoing.

Kawempe church of Uganda P/S will get the first model library this May while the other four schools will have the libraries the next financial year.

He revealed this at the closure of a two-day workshop on promoting reading culture among children.   It was organized by Uganda Children's Writers and Illustrators Association (UCWIA) in partnership with KCCA.

The workshop attended by teachers and parents took place at KCCA main offices in Kampala and was under the theme; "Involving teachers and parents in promoting reading".

Ruth Mwayi, treasurer, UCWIA said the workshop was organized to engage mostly parents and teachers in revising ways of imparting reading culture among children since they are the immediate people that handle children.

"Reading at a tender age plays a crucial role in the development of a child; it enhances their thinking capacity, speech and communication skills, and stand high chances of excelling academically. Parents should instill the culture of reading among their children," she said

Adding: "Get the children to read, have sessions for storytelling, ask a child to write up something for you, give them materials to read to you and thereafter, appreciate what they have done, such acts will instill the culture of reading among the children and we shall have a generation of old people that appreciate reading and its benefits," said Mwayi.

Bruhan Byaruhanga Mugisha, chairperson education services committee, KCCA said the authority is determined to improve not only the city but also education in Kampala, but said KCCA cannot do it alone and called for more partnerships in different projects.

Damalle Kibinge, acting deputy head teacher, Buganda Road Primary school said that most teachers and parents do not read much, and therefore, they cannot encourage the young ones to read.

She called for more sensitization of teachers and parents the importance of reading which will help them embrace the virtue of reading and in turn, encourage the young ones to read.