October 2025.
A new reading programme has been introduced in local primary schools to help over 45 Northern Cape foundation phase educators guide learners beyond just sounding out words, towards truly understanding what they read. The programme provides teachers with training and classroom resources, while also encouraging regular collaboration with parents. By focusing on the practice of reading aloud, children are supported in developing both their reading skills and comprehension.
By using the method of reading aloud, children are guided in building both reading skills and comprehension. Implemented in isiXhosa, Afrikaans, and English, the programme is already reaching more than 5,000 children across the communities of Galeshewe and De Aar, with the first months focused on developing strong pre-reading skills.
The parent of a Grade 2 learner at Alpha Primary School, expressed how valuable she has found this programme to be for both her child and herself, “Back when I was at school, practicing reading was a challenge for me and my peers. I think if there had been more tools, like the hand puppets that we have been encouraged to use in our teaching, or extra reading classes available, it would have been much more fun for us, and when children have fun, they learn faster and better.”
With 81% of Grade 4 learners across our country unable to understand what they read (PIRLS, 2021), it is imperitive to bring practical training on how to integrate reading aloud into classrooms.
Working in partnership with ITEC, the initiative is part of the broader literacy and numeracy programmes funded by Droogfontein Solar Power and De Aar Solar Power through their community development initiatives. It is already running successfully in six community schools, reaching learners at Beacon Primary in Colville, Du Toitspan Primary in Beaconsfield, and Zingisa Primary in Galeshewe; alongside Kareeville Primary School, Alpha Primary School and Zingisani Primary School in De Aar.
A key feature is the regular sharing of learners’ progress between parents and teachers. Using instant messaging, families send daily voice recordings of children reading aloud with their parents. This simple approach has fostered strong commitment and active involvement from both families and educators.
“Extensive research has indicated that reading aloud to children builds and supports their listening and speaking abilities and enhances their overall language development, which the schools participating in this programme shared as significant challenges across the foundation phase,” shared Harrisinah Theka, Economic Development Manager at Droogfontein Solar and De Aar Solar Power funders of the programme.
Schools have received support and resources to establish in-classroom mini-libraries, further encouraging reading as part of daily life.
“Children who are exposed to great stories gain the ability to think clearly, express themselves confidently, and read with understanding. This is the ultimate goal of the three-year programme — to equip learners in our communities with the solid foundation they need to succeed as they move into high school and beyond,” added Theka.
The programme, which launched mid-July, is particularly impactful as learners are assisted according to their individual abilities, with special attention given to those who struggle.
