The MEC for Education in Mpumalanga, Ms Lindi Masina, has called on the provincial community to embrace reading as a daily practice that strengthens both the individual and society.

Speaking at the relaunch of the MEC Book Club in Umjindi, Mbombela, on Tuesday afternoon, Masina stressed that reading must become a social norm. The event was held in collaboration with the National Education Collaboration Trust (NECT) and Room to Read.

“We are making a commitment to lead from the front, to read, discuss, and promote books that inspire thought and community dialogue,” she said. “When the MEC reads, teachers read. When teachers read, learners read. And when learners read, communities thrive.”

The MEC highlighted statistics showing that 41% of learners in the province are at emerging reading levels, 45% are evolving, and only 13% are enhancing their skills. She urged parents to play their part by reading at home during family gatherings, at bedtime, or around the dinner table.

Masina further encouraged the use of digital platforms, e-books, and literacy apps to complement traditional reading. “Technology must not replace reading, it must enhance it,” she noted.

She expressed gratitude to NECT, its leadership, and author Mr MVG Lephoko for their role in making the relaunch a success. She also thanked the media for amplifying literacy campaigns across the province.

Looking ahead, the MEC outlined a vision for every district to host reading forums, every school to form Parent Reading Committees, and every community to establish book circles.

“By this time next year, we want every child to hold a book not because it is prescribed, but because they love it,” Masina concluded.