The one-day event, generously supported by Book Aid International, brought together government officials, educators, students, and community members to spotlight the importance of literacy and elevate the role of libraries in national development.
While aligned with the global theme, the celebration also aimed to foster a culture of reading, advocate for increased government support for libraries, and strengthen the publishing industry in The Gambia.
Held at the Kanifing Municipal Library, a vital hub for book lending, e-learning, internet access, and community engagement, the programme opened with remarks from the Kanifing Municipal Library (KML) Chairperson Mrs Zainab Sesay Jawara.
She emphasised the transformative power of literacy in daily life and encouraged attendees to embrace technology as a tool for innovation.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy, Director Momodu Alieu Jallow spoke on “Driving Digital Transformation to Advance Literacy in The Gambia.”
He underscored the urgent need for teacher training in digital competencies, noting that literacy in the digital age empowers individuals to access, evaluate, and use information responsibly.
Representing the Gambia National Commission for UNESCO (NATCOM), Mr Lamin Jarjou, Senior Programme Officer and ASPnet National Coordinator, delivered the Guest of Honour’s address on “Global Perspectives on Literacy and Digital Inclusion for Lifelong Learning.”
He reaffirmed literacy as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of peace, equity, and sustainable development, while acknowledging the persistent challenges of the global digital divide.
The event featured a series of insightful presentations, including from: Mr Saikou Sanyang, from the Regional Education Directorate – Region One, who spoke on empowering educators to integrate technology into literacy instruction, Mr Momodou Baka Dem, representing the Gambia Teachers’ Union, highlighted the importance of digital literacy training and the role of partnerships in advancing digital classrooms, and Mr Bakary Sanyang, Director General of GNLSA, who advocated for modernising library services through ICT, digital resources, and innovative platforms to ensure libraries remain relevant in a knowledge-driven society.
Adding a creative flair to the day, students from Charles Jaw Memorial Academy performed a short play illustrating the benefits of digital reading and effective teaching methods.
A joint reading and answering competition followed, with winners set to receive books and stationery prizes at a later date.
The celebration generated widespread enthusiasm among dignitaries, educators, parents, and students, who actively participated in discussions and activities. Students, in particular, demonstrated a keen interest in embracing digital learning, reflecting a shared vision for literacy in a technology-driven world.
In his closing remarks, Mr Solomon Ifeanyi Nathaniel, National Coordinator of Unique Foundation (The Gambia), expressed heartfelt gratitude to Book Aid International for funding the event. He commended the collaborative spirit of KML and GNLSA and thanked all guests and participants for their contributions. Mr Nathaniel reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to promoting literacy and supporting partnerships that enhance education and lifelong learning across The Gambia.
The commemoration not only marked International Literacy Day but also reinforced a collective commitment to literacy as a universal right and a catalyst for sustainable development.
