A reading movement begins

A reading movement begins

20 March 2026

Delegates attending the launch of the Western Cape Reading Strategy 2026 – 2030 gathered with one aim: to help every child become a confident reader.

The event on Saturday, 14 March 2026, started with a lively literacy expo filled with colourful displays, hands-on activities and enthusiastic conversations.

As the formal programme began, the energy in the room shifted into a sense of shared focus. Bertram Loriston, Deputy Director-General for Curriculum and Assessment Management, described the initiative as a provincial movement for reading with a vision of classrooms filled with stories and schools that nurture a community of readers. His message was clear: every child, regardless of their background, must have the opportunity to discover the power of reading.

Provincial Education Minister David Maynier set a bold target. Every child in the Western Cape should read for meaning by age 10. Head of Department Brent Walters reminded everyone why this matters. Reading is the foundation of learning and a powerful force for equity.

The strategy presents a long-term pathway that supports learners from Grade R to Grade 12. It is grounded in the Science of Reading and honours the multilingual nature of the province. With six pillars such as teacher development, high-quality materials and strong community partnerships, it calls on everyone to play a part.

The day ended with district teams standing together to pledge their commitment to better literacy outcomes. It was a moment filled with unity and hope. It signalled the beginning of a province-wide commitment to reading.

When children learn to read, their world opens. When a whole province commits to reading, a movement begins.