Reading culture in schools “not the best”, let’s enhance it – Haruna Iddrisu

 

Reading Culture in Schools Declining – Haruna Iddrisu Urges Action.

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has expressed deep concern over what he describes as a declining culture of reading among students across the country, noting that the current trend poses challenges to Ghana’s long-term educational and national development objectives.

Speaking at a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, November 19, during discussions on key allocations for the education sector in the 2026 national budget, Minister Iddrisu highlighted the critical role that reading plays in fostering academic excellence and equipping students with essential skills for personal and professional growth.

“Our reading culture is not the best,” he acknowledged, emphasizing that cultivating strong reading habits remains central to building a knowledgeable and competitive generation.

The Minister urged parents, teachers, and communities to actively participate in nurturing children’s interest in reading. He underscored the importance of early intervention, noting that guiding children to develop a love for reading and learning is one of the most effective ways to enrich their knowledge and shape well-rounded individuals.

“All of us have to encourage and get the culture of reading enhanced. Parents, in particular, should guide the little ones to love reading and learning. This is the best way for them to enrich their knowledge and become strong, capable persons,” he said.

In a bid to address the literacy challenge, Minister Iddrisu reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to providing sustained support for educational development. 

This includes investing in high-quality teaching and learning materials, upgrading school library facilities, and implementing targeted literacy programmes to reach students in all corners of the country.

The Minister also highlighted plans to expand the country’s digital library architecture, which would make learning resources more accessible to students nationwide, bridging gaps in educational opportunities between urban and rural areas.

“We intend to improve the digital library architecture of the country and extend learning resources to every part of the country,” he assured, stressing that access to diverse reading materials is essential for fostering creativity, critical thinking, and academic success.

Experts argue that improving reading culture is a foundational step in achieving broader educational reforms, as literacy is not only a cornerstone of academic achievement but also a driver of socio-economic development. 

By encouraging students to engage with books, articles, and digital resources regularly, schools can cultivate a generation that is better prepared to contribute meaningfully to national growth.

Minister Iddrisu called on stakeholders at all levels to collaborate in building a culture of reading that transcends the classroom. Parents, teachers, librarians, and community leaders are encouraged to create environments where reading is celebrated, supported, and integrated into daily life.

 “A strong reading culture is vital for academic excellence and personal growth. When children read consistently, they develop critical thinking skills, broaden their horizons, and become more informed citizens,” he emphasized.

The Ministry of Education plans to roll out nationwide awareness campaigns on the benefits of reading, coupled with initiatives that equip schools with modern libraries and digital learning tools. These efforts aim to make reading an engaging and sustainable habit for every student, ultimately contributing to a more literate, empowered, and competitive population.

By prioritizing reading and literacy, Ghana can strengthen the foundation of its education system, nurture innovative thinkers, and create opportunities for lifelong learning that extend beyond the classroom. 

Minister Iddrisu’s call to action is a timely reminder that fostering a robust reading culture is not the responsibility of schools alone, it requires collective commitment from families, communities, and policymakers alike.