The fight against illiteracy in South Africa’s foundation phase is a collective responsibility, one that calls for more than policy, but action. Not a stranger to philanthropic work, Nomzamo Mbatha is once again at the forefront, this time championing literacy through the launch of a new school library in Philippi, Cape Town.
In partnership with the Cotton On Foundation and The Bookery, the Nomzamo Lighthouse Foundation has helped open the first library under the Beyond Words project at Masivuke Primary School. The initiative is part of a national movement aimed at improving reading outcomes, particularly as nearly 81% of Grade 4 learners in South Africa struggle to read for meaning.
For schools like Masivuke Primary, where limited resources and infrastructure have long been a challenge, the library represents more than just books, it’s access, opportunity, and a step toward building a culture of reading.
Beyond Words offers a holistic approach, from library development and curated, age-appropriate books to digital tools, teacher training and ongoing support. The goal is to ensure these spaces remain active and impactful long after opening day.
Speaking at the launch, Mbatha emphasised the transformative power of education, noting that books allow children to imagine beyond their immediate realities and unlock future possibilities.
The opening marks the first milestone in a broader national rollout, with more schools set to benefit. As the movement grows, so does its mission: to ensure that every child has access to the tools they need to read, learn and dream.
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