By Mashamba Media
news@alexreporter.co.za
A new initiative aimed at promoting intergenerational literacy and fostering a love for reading has been launched in Alexandra, Johannesburg.
The Masifunde GOGO Reading Club, a collaborative effort between goGOGOgo and Literacy4Life, aims to encourage literacy in youth by incorporating grandmothers (gogos) as literacy champions in their households.
goGOGOgo is a South African non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering grandmothers as change agents in their communities. Founded in 2020 by Jane Simmonds, goGOGOgo focuses on building capacity, skills, and knowledge in female third-generation caregivers. Literacy4Life is an organisation committed to promoting literacy in underserved communities, the organisation aims to create a culture of sustainable literacy through providing access to reading and educational resources to transform lives.
The Rita Teka Foundation provided essential vision screening services at the event, emphasising the importance of eye health in literacy development. The foundation’s founder, Rita Teka, has expressed a commitment to offering free eye tests with the help of sponsors who can provide spectacles.
Itlhokomeleng Home for the Aged and Disabled is a vital institution in Alexandra, Johannesburg, providing essential care and support for the elderly and disabled members of the community. Founded in 1978 by Dr. Marjorie Manganye, this organisation has served the community for over four decades.
As part of its commitment to community enrichment, Itlhokomeleng houses the newly established GOGO library. This resource is accessible during the weekly social activities, offering reading materials and supporting literacy initiatives for both residents and community members.
The Masifunde GOGO Reading Club is designed to: Build literacy skills among children, Promote intergenerational relationships, Provide gogos with children’s books and resources, Teach the importance of reading aloud
Jane Simmonds, speaking about the program, emphasised the importance of reading aloud in building literacy skills and strengthening family bonds.
“This initiative not only helps children develop crucial reading skills but also creates meaningful connections between generations,” she stated.
The launch of the Masifunde GOGO Reading Club marks a significant step towards improving literacy rates in Alexandra and fostering a culture of reading within families.
With the support of authors, philanthropists, and community organisations, the programme aims to make a lasting impact on the educational landscape of the area.
Photos were taken by an Alex based female photographer: Facebook: Patricia Moholo and instagram: patricia_moholo
