The Jacaranda Foundation has opened its 38th library in Malawi, located at Cornerstone Christian School in Blantyre. The library will serve learners from surrounding communities, including Nyambadwe Primary School and Nyambadwe Community Day Secondary School. The facility features a collection of 1,250 books, aiming to provide learners with access to quality reading materials. This development is part of the foundation's efforts to boost the reading culture in Malawi.
According to Luc Deschamps, the executive director of Jacaranda Foundation, the library will not only provide access to books but also serve as a hub for various activities such as chess and drawing. The facility features inspirational murals depicting Malawian and African figures, encouraging learners to believe in their potential. Deschamps emphasized that the goal is to enable children to access quality books, which can help them discover new interests in science, music, and art.
The Jacaranda Foundation has expressed plans to expand its library services to more schools across Malawi. Deschamps mentioned that over 50 schools are awaiting libraries, highlighting the need to increase access to reading materials. The foundation's efforts aim to address the shortage of libraries and promote a reading culture among learners.
Trevor Otto, the founder and chairperson of Cornerstone Christian School, welcomed the library, saying it complements the institution's education mission. He emphasized the importance of reading in giving children opportunities to think creatively and explore new ideas. Otto also highlighted the need for children to engage with books at a time when screens increasingly compete for their attention.
One of the learners, Kutherani Mwase, expressed enthusiasm for the new library, saying it will help children improve their reading and writing skills. The library is expected to have a positive impact on the learners, providing them with a conducive environment to develop their literacy skills.
The Jacaranda Foundation's initiative has been praised for its potential to promote literacy and education in Malawi. With 38 libraries opened so far, the foundation is making significant strides in increasing access to reading materials for learners across the country.
The library at Cornerstone Christian School is expected to serve as a model for future libraries, providing a blueprint for the foundation's expansion plans. As the foundation continues to open more libraries, it is likely to have a lasting impact on the education sector in Malawi.
Key points
- The Jacaranda Foundation has opened 38 libraries in Malawi, providing access to quality reading materials for learners.
- The foundation plans to expand its library services to over 50 schools across Malawi.
- The library at Cornerstone Christian School features a collection of 1,250 books and inspirational murals to encourage learners.
