Each year, World Read Aloud Day reminds us of the transformative power of storytelling and the magic of reading aloud. In 2025, this celebration takes on even greater importance for South Africa as we grapple with ongoing literacy challenges under the banner of this year’s theme: “Celebrate the Power of Reading Aloud to Create Community and Amplify New Stories.”
South Africa’s literacy landscape remains deeply concerning. The latest Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) revealed that 81% of Grade 4 learners cannot read for meaning in any language. This stark reality highlights the urgent need to address literacy inequalities, particularly in under-resourced communities where access to educational tools remains limited.
Yet, amid these challenges, there are glimmers of hope. The Western Cape’s Back on Track initiative is one such example. Launched by the provincial education department to combat learning losses from the COVID-19 pandemic, this program focuses on foundational literacy and numeracy. Through extended teaching hours, targeted interventions, and teacher support, it seeks to equip learners with essential reading skills. However, while promising, initiatives like these remind us that achieving universal literacy requires sustained commitment and collective effort.
Reading aloud is far more than an educational tool—it is a bridge to connection. It fosters empathy, enhances listening skills, and ignites a love for stories. For children, hearing stories read aloud sharpens language abilities and comprehension while creating lasting memories of shared narratives. For adults, it is an opportunity to reconnect with cultural roots and forge bonds through storytelling.
In South Africa, where oral traditions remain a vital part of cultural identity, reading aloud serves as a bridge between our storytelling heritage and modern literacy practices. It celebrates diverse voices, ensures that untold stories are heard, and nurtures a sense of belonging in a multilingual society.
This year’s theme holds resonance for South Africa, a nation rich in cultural diversity and brimming with untapped narratives. Our stories—rooted in various languages, traditions, and lived experiences—carry the power to inspire, heal, and unite. Organisations such as Wordworks, Nal’ibali and the FunDza Literacy Trust are already championing this cause by promoting literature that reflects the lives and aspirations of South African children.
By reading these stories aloud, we preserve our heritage while empowering the next generation of storytellers.
World Read Aloud Day is more than a celebration; it is a call to action. To truly embrace the power of reading aloud, we must advocate for policies that prioritise literacy education and resource allocation, support local authors and publishers who amplify South Africa’s diverse voices, volunteer in reading programs to reach children in under-resourced areas and encourage parents and caregivers to read aloud at home, creating ripples that reach schools and communities.
As South Africa joins the global celebration of World Read Aloud Day, let us remember that reading aloud is more than sharing words—it is about creating connections, empowering voices, and building a future where every child can read for meaning. By amplifying new stories and strengthening community bonds, we take a vital step toward addressing the literacy crisis and shaping a nation of readers.
About The Author
Dorcas Dube-Londt serves as the National Marketing and Communications Manager at Citizen Leader Lab and a Board Member of Casey Foundation Africa. With extensive experience as a researcher and scholar, she is well-regarded for her dedication to social justice, education, and leadership, having received numerous accolades and recognition over the years. Dorcas is also a PhD candidate at the University of Johannesburg.
www.citizenleaderlab.org
