By Dalitso Kampira

Thyolo, November 9, Mana: A brighter future for Thyolo’s children is unfolding with the launch of a new children’s corner at Luchenza Community Day Secondary School (CDSS), an initiative by the National Library Service (NLS) to promote reading culture among young learners.

Speaking at the launch on Friday in Luchenza, Acting Regional Librarian for the Southern Region, Martha Gada, emphasized the need to address low reading culture in Malawi.

“This corner is our effort to instill a lifelong love for reading among children and help break the barriers to ignorance,” she added.

Gada said that the NLS was equipping the children’s corners with age-appropriate materials to engage young minds and encourage consistent reading habits.

Assistant District School Health and Nutrition Coordinator for Thyolo, Francis Kunje, hailed the initiative, saying it has potential impact on both children and the broader community.

“A space like this not only promotes literacy but aligns to Malawi’s 2063 agenda. By encouraging a culture of reading, we are laying the foundation for an educated and informed generation,” she added.

NLS Luchenza Branch Supervisor, Deborah Nyirenda, said the corner provides a platform for children to learn beyond the classroom, develop critical thinking, and gain exposure to the world through books.

She further urged parents to support their children by encouraging regular visits to the library.

“Reading is not just about passing exams but nurturing a culture of curiosity and lifelong learning,” Nyirenda added.

Ten-year-old Favour Kossam, a learner at Luchenza Primary School, expressed excitement saying that the library helped her learn to read, write, spell and numerate better.

“I encourage my fellow learners to embrace this opportunity,” said Favour.

The project, funded by Book Aid International aims at dedicating space where children from nursery to primary school can access books and other reading materials, fostering literacy and knowledge acquisition.