Gochas: The Hardap Regional Readathon is taking place at PI Groenewaldt Junior Secondary School in Gochas this week, drawing learners and teachers from across the region for a week of reading activities. The event, which began on Monday and runs until Friday, aims to promote a culture of literacy in Namibia.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the readathon focuses on improving literacy and numeracy rates and encouraging a greater appreciation for reading. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mbumba Haitengela, Executive Director in the Ministry of Education, emphasised the importance of ensuring that all Namibian children have access to reading materials. Haitengela highlighted the need for well-resourced school libraries to serve as vibrant learning hubs that promote wellness, creativity, and academic excellence.

Kathleen Gowases, the Hardap Region's chief librarian, provided a brief history of the event, explaining that the readathon was first launched in 1988 by the Namibian Children Book Forum to address the lack of books in many homes. Gowases noted that the event has faced challenges, including suspensions in 1990 and 1991 due to logistical issues and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2022.

The readathon moves to a different town or village each year, bringing together learners from various parts of the region to participate in activities like book readings, storytelling, poetry writing, and drama performances.