UNDER the warm sunshine and rustling trees of the Anna Regina car park, the magic of storytelling took centre stage as the Regional Literacy Unit of Region Two, in collaboration with the Department of Education, hosted a spirited celebration in honour of International World Book Day. The event brought together students, parents, teachers, and book lovers in a festival of words, imagination, and learning.

The scenic venue was transformed into a vibrant literary haven where the joy of reading resonated through the air. Laughter from children painting, whispers of shared stories, and passionate readings created a space where books came to life.
At the heart of the celebration was Education Officer for Literacy, Sir Ronald Ragoobeer, who emphasised the deep purpose behind the event. “Reading is the foundation of learning,” he said, adding that involving children in reading from an early age helps nurture curiosity and a lasting love for books. Ragoobeer also encouraged parents to take an active role in cultivating this habit at home. “Promoting reading with your child is one of the most powerful investments in their future,” he noted.

Children were not only reading aloud and listening to stories, but also expressing their creativity through activities like painting and storytelling games—bridging the gap between literacy and artistic expression.
Regional Education Officer, Ms. Shondelle Hercules, shared a passionate message as Region Two joined the global World Book Day observance. “Books are more than just pages bound together—they are windows to the world, bridges to understanding, and keys to personal growth,” she said. Hercules

reminded students and parents of the profound impact reading can have on shaping young minds and inspiring lifelong learning.
She further added, “In every classroom, home, and library, books have the potential to spark curiosity, cultivate empathy, and empower learners to reach their fullest potential.”

The World Book Day event served as more than a reading session—it was a reminder of the essential role literacy plays in building a better future. As the pages turned and imaginations soared, the event reaffirmed that books, in all their forms, remain timeless companions on the journey of learning.