West End Primary celebrates literacy and Heritage Day with books and cultural showcases
In the back from left are, Owenkosi Baliso and Kisha Safadien. In front left are Tiarah Lodewyk, Luhlelo Thobi, Thalanda Dini, and Aaliya Beckett at their literacy and heritage celebrations on Friday, September 19.
Image: Marsha Bothma
International Literacy Day and Heritage Day were celebrated at West End Primary School on Friday September 21, where pupils received free books and showcased their heritage.
The event was led by Living Through Learning in partnership with a financial services company and Help the Rural Child, a non-profit providing books to underserved pupils.
The theme was ‘Readers are Leaders,’ and every pupil was gifted a book.
Grade 2 West End Primary School pupil, Luhlelo Thobi and behind her is MC and peformer Anslin Gysman at the celebrations on Friday September 19.
Image: Marsha Bothma
An exhibition allowed pupils to showcase their heritage and culture, while performer and MC Anslin Gysman provided the entertainment. Renowned storyteller Dr Gcina Mhlophe shared tales that combined culture with imagination, inspiring a love of reading.
Principal Clive Arries said the event highlighted the school’s growth from humble beginnings into a globally recognised institution, named one of the Top 10 Schools in the World for overcoming adversity in 2022.
“We are proud of our pupils’ achievements, from impressive pass rates to published authors and accolades in robotics and writing competitions. Today’s celebration honours not only reading but the culture and resilience that define West End Primary,” he said.
The pupils dressed up in their finest attire for Heritage Day celebrations on Friday September 19.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Dagny Baleson, general manager at Living Through Learning, said: “The theme, ‘Readers are Leaders,’ reflects our belief in the power of books to open opportunities and nurture future leaders. Every learner received a book of their choice from Help the Rural Child. This helps empower underserved communities like Mitchell’s Plain through literacy.”
Mymoena Moses, foundation phase departmental head, said the event revived a culture of reading often lost to technology.
“Last week, when Help the Rural Child donated books, the learners’ excitement was incredible. Across the Western Cape, many struggle with reading comprehension, and programs like this help bridge that gap,” she said.
Acclaimed storyteller Dr Gcina Mhlope captivated pupils with tales blending culture and imagination, inspiring a love of reading.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Wisahl Ganief, head of marketing at the financial services company, said: “Readers are leaders, give learners the chance to lead in their own lives. Literacy expands horizons, equips children with skills and knowledge, and inspires them to move forward. This is our way of giving back to underserved communities and supporting future leaders.”
Grade 4 pupil Zaakir Bastra said: “Some of us received our very first books today, and that is something we will always remember. Thanks for reminding us that reading and learning can be so joyful.”