Ghanaians have again been reminded to cultivate the habit of reading to promote literacy in the country.
Dr. Saeed Adam Banda, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SuccessLink publications, who gave the remainder noted that constantly reading various educational materials broadens one’s mind and engenders creativity.
In an exclusive interview on Fabea FM, a local FM radio at Nkoranza in the Bono East Region, Dr. Adam Banda, who is also an educationist and a publisher, reaffirmed the importance of education as a driving tool for economic growth and social progress as well.
Touching on the Ghana International Book Fair which will soon take place in Tamale, he disclosed that the book fair aligns with World Book and Copyright Day celebrations, as designated by UNESCO.
The fair’s theme, “Read your way: Celebrating Accessible Literature,” according to him, highlights the importance of inclusive publishing.
The three-day Fair will feature book exhibitions from many publishing organizations, reading competitions, seminars, and poetry contests, all maintaining high credible editorial standards.
Dr. Adam Banda added that reading and writing empower and transform students lives by opening new doors, world, ideas, and fresh perspectives, added that: “Reading develops language skills and improves comprehensive skills for academic success.”
The CEO reiterated that the book industry serves as a significant tool for the country’s cultural heritage and development of the educational system and emphasized that reading develops the mind and gives a lot of knowledge and lessons in life, saying that the book fair focused on discussing strategies to make the future of book publishing and reading meaningful and sustainable.
When asked about the challenges of reading in Ghana, Dr. Adam Banda mentioned that publishing has changed in recent times, and one of the most significant challenges is the unavailability of textbooks after the implementation of new curriculums.
He pleaded with the government to collaborate with writers in the country to develop more textbooks and ensure a proactive supply of requisite textbooks to raise the standard of education in the country.
Story by Apiah-Kubi, Nkoranza
