READING PROGRAMME MARKS THREE YEARS

June 2025.

A local reading programme is making a meaningful difference in the lives of young learners by boosting literacy skills and strengthening the quality of education across local schools in Kanana and Kgakala. Now in its third year, this initiative continues to grow in both reach and impact, and has demonstrated measurable success by fully integrating reading time into school timetables and providing career opportunities for youth.

Funded by Bokamoso Solar in partnership with READ Foundation, this programme was established with the aim of reducing the gap that learners experience in school, especially as a result of Covid-19.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to long-term, meaningful change in education. By investing in both learners and aspiring teachers, we are building a stronger educational foundation and supporting youth employment and skills development,” said Qinisani Siveshe, Social Performance Manager for Bokamoso Solar.

With the successful placement of a second group of learner assistants at four local primary schools, the programme is now fully integrated into the school day, aligning with the timetables at Atamela and Reahola Primary Schools in Kanana, as well as Thusang and Koketso Primary Schools in Kgakala.

This integration provides grade 4 learners with focused support to enhance their vocabulary, reading fluency, and writing skills. Originally conducted outside of school hours, the programme has been redesigned to take place during the school day, a change that has improved learner safety and strengthened the connection between the programme and regular school activities.

“Having Learner Assistants in our school has made teachers’ work more efficient and less stressful. Learners are more confident, their language skills have improved, and learning has become more interactive. Their presence has created a more positive and productive learning environment for both teachers and learners,” said Mrs. M. Marumo, Deputy Principal of Atamela Primary School.

This year’s cohort of Learner Assistants is the first to benefit from the programme’s full range of enhancements. These include training in pedagogy, digital literacy, mental health support, and access to structured professional development pathways. Most of the Learner Assistants are students pursuing teaching qualifications, making the programme a vital step in their professional journey.

As a result, many of the Learner Assistants have secured permanent employment or gained practical teaching experience, while others have improved their communication, confidence, and classroom management skills, demonstrating the success of this initiative.

“Being part of this programme has been a truly rewarding experience for me. I now find great joy in seeing my learners improve. This programme has not only supported their growth but has also helped me become more confident and passionate about teaching,” said one of the Learner Assistants, Alinah Dibolelo Bothitho from Atamela Primary School.