Ghana Library Authority, French NGO Champion Reading Culture to Revive Academic Excellence in Schools
The Ghana Library Authority, in collaboration with the French non-governmental organization, Association Préparons l’Avenir de Nos Enfants (A.P.A.E), has renewed its commitment to promoting a strong reading culture among pupils and students as a key strategy to improve academic performance in Ghana’s basic schools.
This call was made during a district-level quiz competition organized at the Abroma Library and Cultural Center in the Afigya Kwabre North District of the Ashanti Region. The event brought together six public primary schools, drawing attention to the declining reading habits among schoolchildren and the urgent need to reverse the trend.
The quiz competition formed part of a broader educational initiative spearheaded by the Ghana Education Service (GES), the Ghana Library Authority, and the Ministry of Education’s Systems Strengthening activity, which focuses on improving reading and literacy skills in public schools.
In an interview with Onua News, Madam Theodosia Twumasi Ankrah of the Abroma Library and Cultural Center, and Mr. Emmanuel Akosi, Deputy Ashanti Regional Librarian, expressed concern over the waning interest in reading among pupils. They emphasized that revitalizing reading habits is crucial for building a knowledgeable and academically capable generation.
“Reading is the door to everything. If a child can read and understand, and is interested in books, they can go far academically and even socially. Reading builds confidence and opens up a world of opportunities,” said Madam Twumasi Ankrah.
Mr. Akosi added that parents, teachers, and all education stakeholders must actively support reading initiatives both in and outside the classroom to foster a sustained culture of literacy.
The event was not only a quiz contest but also a platform for assessing students’ reading capabilities and understanding. Participants were tested on general knowledge, comprehension, and vocabulary—areas designed to reflect the importance of regular reading.
Assistant Headmaster of Boaman St. Mary’s School, Mr. Francis Aning, lauded the initiative and encouraged that such educational programmes be organized more frequently to keep pupils academically active and intellectually sharp.
“The quiz has been a great motivation for our students. It pushed them to read more and engage with learning materials. We’re very happy with the outcome and look forward to more of such events,” he noted.
Some students who participated shared their excitement and appreciation for the programme. They said the quiz prepared them well academically and increased their confidence in answering questions and speaking in public.
The Ghana Library Authority and its partners believe that if reading is given the needed attention and support, academic outcomes across the country will improve significantly. They called for continuous support from government agencies, local authorities, and private organizations to ensure the success of future reading and literacy initiatives.
