By Vishani Ragobeer

THE University of Guyana, in collaboration with Courts Guyana Inc. yesterday launched its 12th annual ‘Reading is Fun’ outreach programme at the university’s library.The launch took place in the main reading room of the UG library, where the three-week programme would engage some 60 children between the ages of eight to 13.

Courts Guyana Country Manager, Clyde De Haas noted that the company is pleased to have been involved with this programme for a number of years.

“We want to partner in programmes like this to make a difference in the lives of people, especially children,” De Haas said, as he encouraged the enthusiasm of the children present, telling them that “reading is like dreaming with your eyes open,” as it transports you to a world of unlimited possibilities.

LIFE SKILLS
He stated: “Today you are a reader; tomorrow you are a leader.” He emphasised the obvious importance of literacy and education and told the children that they will not only be exposed to literacy training, but will be taught “life skills”.

This outreach programme is one which the University of Guyana, through its main library, engages in every year during the summer vacation. The students taking part are mostly from the Sophia area and will be benefitting from a programme tailored to foster a love for reading from an early age while enhancing their language competency and extending the scope of their imagination.

Elizabeth Ramlall, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Planning and Development, noted that this initiative is one which began with the previous librarian, Ms. Lancaster, who engaged in outreach programmes by providing food hampers to residents in the Sophia area. However, this programme has transformed into one which seeks to improve the literacy of children in the same community.

Librarian Debra Lowe noted that graduate teachers from the Faculty of Education and Humanities will be acting as research persons and will be engaging with the children.

The university’s Public Relations Officer, Paulette Paul along with other library staff will also assist the graduate teachers with fostering the children’s phonetic, comprehensive and linguistic skills.
This year marks the 7th year that Courts Guyana Inc. has been collaborating with the university to make this programme a reality.