PARTNERS

Nal’ibali (isiXhosa for “here’s the story”)https://nalibali.org/ is a national reading-for-enjoyment campaign to spark children’s potential through storytelling and reading. Nal’ibali is built on the simple logic that a well-established culture of reading can be a real game-changer for education in South Africa. Literacy skills are a strong predictor of future academic success in all subjects – and children who regularly read and hear engaging stories, in languages they understand, are well equipped and motivated to learn to read and write. A significant body of research reinforces the link between reading for pleasure and improved outcomes for children.

Limpopo schools and libraries around Polokwane were involved: –  Seshego, Westenburg and Mankweng libraries, as well Moria, Makgefola, Malesa Moriting, Toronto, Mankweng, Snell Poshko, Dorothy Langa, Maseala, Millenium and Niravana primary schools.

ABOUT

Clowns Without Borders South Africa and Nal’ibali launched a year long social mobilisation campaign in March 2019 to encourage children, youth and families to access libraries in order to enjoy reading, as well as seeing it as a safe space, where they can read, hear stories, be with friends or have a quiet time. Many children and families may feel libraries are not accessible to them, but this campaign proves them wrong!! It is to support the overall campaign in South Africa to improve literacy levels of all children, as well as to show them how reading can help you dream and create the life you would like!. CWBSA has created a new performance about reading to show children, teachers and parents how it can open up new worlds – working with storytelling, physical theatre, games and laughter, the show brings books alive, also breaking down typical stereotypes that exist in our society.

FEEDBACK FROM BENEFICIARIES

The learners and educators from Moriting Primary School enjoyed the good work presented by members from Nalibali. It was fantastic and valuable. Learners managed to acquire knowledge and skills eg listening skill and reading skill. From the drama the learners are looking for another one. It was very exciting. Well done. – Mamabolo M.M. (HOD) Department of Languages, Moriting PS
 
The show was very interesting. It captured learners’ attention. The activities were marvellous. Everything with the show out of this world. We expect to have more shows of this nature in future.  – Moloto F.P. Principal, Snell Phoshoko PS
 
I like the bit where they were juggling. We should learn to read more books in life. – Leon, Grade 5, Maseala PS