The Second Lady Samira Bawumia has donated books to schools in the Wenchi and Techiman Municipalities in the Brong Ahafo Region.

Ten schools benefited from her benevolence under the auspices of her not-for-profit organization – the Samira Empowerment and Humanitarian Projects (SEHP).

Announcing the package to the schools during the celebration of International Literacy Day, Mrs Bawumia was optimistic it will go a long way to cultivate a habit of reading in students.

“As part of the activities to celebrate International Literacy Day and in commemoration of Prof. Kofi Abrefa Busia, I am donating books to 10 schools in the Wenchi and Techiman Municipalities, as part of our Library in a Box project. I believe that cultivating a habit of reading is important, and will provide a springboard for our students to excel,” the Second Lady stated.

Mrs Bawumia donated the books during the Busia 40th Anniversary celebration at Wenchi in the Brong Ahafo Region on Saturday, 8th September 2018. She advised students to make reading a habit to broaden their knowledge as well as make them critical thinkers.

“I encourage all of us here to let us join hands to promote reading across different disciplines,” Mrs. Bawumia stressed.

She added: “As a priority, let us engage students in extensive reading and help them become self-directed readers.”

Mrs. Bawumia promised to use SEHP to “contribute significantly to raising the next generation of leaders and critical thinkers” such as the late Prof. Kofi Abrefa Busia among others.

“As we celebrate the late learned Professor, we are reminded of the theme for this year’s International Literacy Day - ‘Literacy and Skills Development’.

“Professor Busia's scholarly contribution was invaluable and is regarded as one of Africa's most influential scholars whose parallel academic and political career made for a good blend of academic and practical knowledge to solve problems,” she extolled the late academician.

Over the years, SEHP has been at the forefront in improving literacy, critical thinking and cultivate a culture of reading among pupils in Ghana.

International Literacy Day is an occasion to remind all about the importance of the ability to read and write, as well as highlight the opportunities that could be taken up by those who learn these skills.

The Day is also used to celebrate the successful endeavours of individuals and organisations that have made outstanding contributions in education.