25th September 2007
How many Kenyans if banished to a desert island, and asked to take only one thing with them, will opt for a book?
In Kenya, large numbers of people rarely read - either because they lack the skill or simply because they do not care enough to take the time to concentrate. This poor reading habit is not only harmful to the present but it poses serious problems in the future. But how do we make people readers for life?
The Kenyans Reading Culture has been stagnating for a very long period of time. This means that the reading culture promoters have failed to beat the socio-political, social-economical and social-technological effects that have continued biting the reading culture in the country.
The current state however is paradoxical as the level of literacy in the country has continued to grow over the years. The increased educational institutions, improved facilities and even the introduction of the free primary education have not improved on the reading culture in the country.
Another paradox is that although people spend less time on reading, books are still considered to be main vehicles of knowledge thus worth possessing and cherished even by those parents who hardly ever read. The success and dependency on other media still depend on reading skills. The new media whether printed or on screen require excellent reading skills.
Our society at large can’t escape the blame as history has proved it to be a non reading society. It is hilarious for non reading parents to buy books for their kids to read when they are glued to the computer and Television screens.
Reading is essential - part of life and development. I need hardly convince you of the importance of reading. It is essential to full participation in modern society. It adds quality to life, and provides access to culture and cultural heritage. Reading empowers and emancipates citizens, and it brings people together.
It should be promoted through partnership between the public and private sectors. Parents, teachers, and the society at large should stimulate the reading of books, newspapers and magazines by taking up the challenge themselves before forcing it on the kids.
Culture is inherited and not just taught in class.
By Joel Nakitare
KEMU Library
KEMU Library