By: Yunus S. Salui
Unique Foundation (The Gambia), in collaboration with the Kanifing Municipal Library (KML) and the Gambia National Library Service Authority (GNLSA), joined the rest of the world in celebrating International Literacy Day 2025.
The global theme for this year is: “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era.” The one-day event, generously funded by Book Aid International, brought together government officials, educators, students, and members of the community to raise awareness about the importance of literacy, highlight the evolving role of libraries, and advocate for stronger support for reading, publishing, and education in The Gambia.
Held at the Kanifing Municipal Library, a hub for book lending, e-learning, internet access, and community engagement, the celebration featured a series of insightful speeches, engaging presentations, and student-led performances.
The event opened with welcoming remarks by Mrs. Zainab Sesay Jawara, Chairperson of KML, who emphasized the essential role of literacy in everyday life. She encouraged participants to embrace technology as a tool for innovation, especially in education.
The keynote address was delivered on behalf of the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy by Director Momodu Alieu Jallow, who spoke on the topic “Driving Digital Transformation to Advance Literacy in The Gambia.” He stressed the need to equip teachers with the skills to help students navigate the digital world, noting that digital literacy empowers individuals to access, evaluate, and use information responsibly.
The guest of honour’s address was delivered by Mr. Lamin Jarjou, Senior Programme Officer and ASPnet National Coordinator at the Gambia National Commission for UNESCO (NATCOM). Speaking on “Global Perspectives on Literacy and Digital Inclusion for Lifelong Learning,” he described literacy as a fundamental human rights and a foundation for peace, equity, and sustainable development. He also acknowledged the on-going challenges posed by the global digital divide.
Several speakers contributed to a rich discussion on literacy and digital inclusion on the occasion.
Students from Charles Jaw Memorial Academy added energy to the celebration with a short play showcasing the benefits of digital reading and effective teaching methods. This was followed by a joint reading and quiz competition, with winners set to receive books and stationery prizes at a later date.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from students, educators, parents, and dignitaries, all of whom engaged actively in the day’s discussions and activities. The students, in particular, showed eagerness to embrace digital learning opportunities, reflecting a growing shift toward technology-driven literacy solutions.
In his closing statement, Mr. Solomon Ifeanyi Nathaniel, National Coordinator of Unique Foundation (The Gambia), expressed deep gratitude to Book Aid International for funding the event. He also thanked the Kanifing Municipal Library for hosting the celebration and the GNLSA for its continued collaboration.
Mr. Nathaniel commended all guests and participants for their meaningful contributions and reaffirmed Unique Foundation’s commitment to promoting literacy, fostering education, and building partnerships that support lifelong learning in The Gambia.
