As the festive season arrives and families begin shopping for meaningful gifts, a growing number of parents are looking for presents that are both fun and educational. With report cards going out next week and many learners struggling with reading comprehension, the holidays present a key opportunity to keep children engaged - without adding pressure or extra homework.
A solution comes from TAQA, a South African edtech start-up that is transforming how children read and learn. TAQA offers videobooks in all 11 official South African languages, blending illustrations, audio, music and text to bring stories to life. Designed to support home-language reading and improve comprehension, the videobooks make literacy accessible, fun and culturally relevant.
This innovation is especially critical in light of the Funda Uphumelele National Survey, which recently revealed that only 3 out of 10 foundational phase learners are reading at the expected level, and that children perform better academically when taught in their home languages. TAQA’s library helps bridge this gap by giving children exciting, relatable stories in the languages they understand best.
Why TAQA Videobooks Make the Perfect Gift
- A meaningful learning tool that incorporates entertainment
- Supports literacy development over the December break
- Digital library makes it accessible to children who have physical barriers to libraries
- Promotes cultural pride through indigenous-language storytelling
“Home-language reading is essential to a child’s confidence and comprehension,” says Qhawe Bula, Founder & CEO of TAQA. “Our videobooks use technology, creativity and culture to make reading a joyful experience.” With families preparing for the 2026 school year, TAQA’s digital stories offer a way to spark imagination, strengthen reading skills and keep learning alive throughout the holidays.
Click here to find a book in your home language
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