On Monday 8 September, Learning in Reach (LiR) will launch its annual Big Book Wrap campaign. The aim is to wrap and distribute 6 700 books to South Africa’s youngest learners.
About Learning in Reach
LiR is a non-profit organisation (NPO) dedicated to improving literacy and early childhood development outcomes for vulnerable children. The organisation works directly with communities. It ensures every child has access to quality education, nutrition, and care.
Tackling South Africa’s literacy crisis
The campaign is part of a broader effort to address the country’s literacy challenges. These have serious consequences for children’s education, future employment, and social cohesion. This year’s International Literacy Day theme, “Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies”, highlights the link between early learning and long-term community well-being.
According to the latest Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) results, 81% of South African Grade 4 learners cannot read for meaning. This is up from 78% in 2016. Without intervention, children who struggle to read by age ten are unlikely to catch up.
The importance of early childhood development
Early childhood is a critical period for learning. However, only 40% of children aged three to five attend quality early childhood development programmes. Research shows that children who own books are 15 times more likely to read above the expected level for their age. This underlines the importance of initiatives like the Big Book Wrap campaign.
How people can get involved
The campaign encourages South Africans to participate in multiple ways:
- Donate a book for R50.
- Join the Buy One, Donate One option for R100, gifting one book to a child in need.
- Businesses and community groups can organise office challenges. They can sponsor reading corners in preschools or pledge larger sets of books. These actions transform classrooms and community centres.
Supporting social and emotional growth
Beyond literacy, this year’s campaign includes three self-published titles that nurture empathy, resilience, and diversity:
- Calming Big Feelings – self-regulation
- Overcoming Anxiety and Fears to Achieve – courage
- Individuality and Uniqueness – confidence
“When children read, they don’t just learn words – they learn to think critically, cooperate, and develop empathy,” the organisation said.
Get involved
Supporters can visit the Learning in Reach Big Book Wrap page. They can also take part in community book-wrapping and reading events.
For related news, read about local schools tackling literacy challenges and early childhood development initiatives in Cape Town.
