Gambian students from senior secondary schools, colleges and universities will compete in a national reading contest at Motherland as organizers attempt to strengthen the country's literacy culture. Founder Modou Lamin Almusaf Sowe expressed concern that Gambia has never participated in international reading competitions despite its educational progress and peaceful reputation, calling for stronger collaboration with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education.
Secretary Jamilatou Jallow said participants aged 16 to 30 will compete for prizes and a chance to represent Gambia in a Guinness World Record reading challenge. Organizers have engaged 32 schools across the Kombo area, with more expected to join. She noted that national literacy stands at approximately 60 percent according to UNESCO estimates, with male literacy reaching 75 percent while female literacy remains around 50 percent.
The competition aims to launch a broader movement encouraging young Gambians to read more frequently and compete internationally, placing the country on the global literacy map.
Secretary Jamilatou Jallow said participants aged 16 to 30 will compete for prizes and a chance to represent Gambia in a Guinness World Record reading challenge. Organizers have engaged 32 schools across the Kombo area, with more expected to join. She noted that national literacy stands at approximately 60 percent according to UNESCO estimates, with male literacy reaching 75 percent while female literacy remains around 50 percent.
The competition aims to launch a broader movement encouraging young Gambians to read more frequently and compete internationally, placing the country on the global literacy map.
