Introduction

On Saturday, September 21, 2024, Open Minds Book Club carried out a donation and reading outreach program at Someh Rahma Islamic Basic School in the Greater Accra Region. This initiative is part of the club’s ongoing efforts to promote literacy and a culture of reading among school children in underserved communities.

Activities and Participation

Approximately 15 dedicated volunteers from Open Minds Book Club were present to lead the activities for the day. The event was marked by vibrant engagement with both students and staff of the school.

• Meeting with Teachers: Volunteers first met with the teaching staff to present stationery items as gifts and to discuss ways to further support reading among the pupils. The interaction provided an opportunity to strengthen community relations and share the mission of the Open Minds Book Club.

• Reading Sessions: Volunteers spent quality time reading to the students, emphasizing the importance of reading beyond the classroom. They encouraged pupils to regularly read their books at home and to view reading as a fun and lifelong habit.

• Book and Stationery Distribution: A total of 250 textbooks and storybooks were donated and distributed to the students. These books were generously provided by volunteers and benevolent donors who responded to outreach efforts by the Open Minds Book Club.

Impact

The outreach reached over 100 students, who participated enthusiastically in the reading sessions and received books with great excitement. Teachers expressed their appreciation for the support, highlighting the potential impact such materials and engagement could have on improving literacy levels in the school.

The event was a clear reflection of Open Minds Book Club’s mission—to foster a love for reading and provide resources that empower young minds. Both students and staff left the program inspired and hopeful for continued partnerships.

Conclusion

The donation event at Someh Rahma Islamic Basic School was a resounding success. The joy on the children’s faces and the gratitude of the teachers serve as a reminder of the power of community-driven initiatives. Open Minds Book Club remains committed to expanding its reach and promoting literacy across Ghana, one book at a time.