A Mobile Library Helps Boost Literacy Among Pupils in the DR Congo
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Loading... - Sophia Afari
- 19 Sep 2024
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In a bid to promote reading and literacy among pupils in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the French Institute of Bukavu has launched a mobile library initiative called Kitabus. The name "Kitabus" is derived from "Kitabu," meaning book in Swahili, and "Bus" as a means of transport.
Kitabus is a bookmobile that offers a diverse collection of novels, fables, manga, manuals, and more to promote access to reading. The mobile library addresses potential issues of mobility or low interest in reading in a city of 3 million inhabitants, which has fewer than 5 physical public libraries.
The mobile library has been well-received by students, who are thrilled to have access to a wide range of books beyond their textbooks. Students like Bizimana Johanna, a pupil at Le Progres School Complex, are enthusiastic about the opportunity to read and explore new books. "At this moment, I am reading 'L'atelier de Roxanne.' I feel comfortable and happy to be here and see the books. It will help me write, read well, consult, and love books," said Johanna.
ENABEL, which supports this project, believes that eliminating poverty in all its forms begins with basic education. The mobile library initiative is seen as a prime channel for preparing a generation capable of addressing the huge developmental challenges in the near future.
Teachers like Patrick Zezé IRENGE believe that stimulating a love of reading in children and young people symbolizes growth beyond learning, developing vocabulary, and improving oral expression. "The creative youth intervention aims to enhance the potential of young people. We know very well that through reading, young people learn a lot, especially to be autonomous in many ways," said Patrick.
The Director of Le Progres School Complex sees this initiative as a great way to engage students during downtime and contribute to strengthening the Congolese educational system, which faces challenges in implementing its policy of free basic education.
The Kitabus mobile library initiative in Bukavu is the first of its kind in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, laying the groundwork for the implementation of suitable means to promote access to reading.
