Bulawayo Hosts 2024 International Literacy Day Commemorations

Pronellah Lunga

Bulawayo Metropolitan Province hosted the 2024 International Literacy Day yesterday, under the theme “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace.”

Organized by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, the event drew participation from schools across all ten provinces of Zimbabwe.

The event was officiated by the Minister of State and Provincial Affairs for Bulawayo Metropolitan, Hon. Judith Ncube, who highlighted the significance of literacy in promoting peace and understanding among diverse communities.

“International Literacy Day underscores the extraordinary value of the written word and the necessity to promote a literate society,” she said.

Hon Ncube added that “As we commemorate this day, let us reflect on the power of languages in shaping identities and building bridges between communities.”

Students showcased various local products, with performances including a brass band from Mutendi High School and cultural exhibitions.

Bulawayo emerged as the overall winner, with Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South securing second and third places, respectively.

Mrs. Jamari Chanangurai, Bulawayo’s provincial representative, expressed excitement over their win, stating, “We had a lot of literature and different artifacts to showcase the 16 languages from different cultures. I think we did justice to the theme, with our pupil from Pace College winning an individual prize.”

Matabeleland South’s representative, Mr. Solium Ncube, celebrated their improvement, noting, “Last year’s edition in Murewa saw us finish last, but we worked hard to make improvements. This result means that next year we’re likely to take the top spot.”

Prizes included tablets for top individual participants, while the winning provinces received two pigs, books, and T-shirts. The event featured a wide array of exhibitions, including food technology, traditional dance, storytelling, and fashion.

International Literacy Day was first celebrated in 1967 and continues to emphasize the critical role of literacy in community development.