“We are emphasising the importance of reading among our children through this initiative—The National Readathon, now in its 4th edition. Through this event we are encouraging more children to read more and better, an event with an altruistic and solidarity aspect. The more our children read the more they will be raising funds to buy equipment for children on the wide range of the autism spectrum so that they too can read, and this is when we are really talking about an education that is truly inclusive”.
Minister for Education Justyne Caruana stated this together with Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, Chair of the Malta Trust Foundation, when she launched this year’s edition of the National Readathon at the National Literacy Agency’s premises in Ħamrun.
In view of the restrictions brought about by the pandemic, together with the MTF collaborating partners, the National Literacy Agency, the continuation of this project is through a virtual version of the National Readathon. The first three of weeks of March will be dedicated to the National Readathon, whereby on alternate days, groups from year 1 to 6 will adopt the “Drop Everything and Read” concept on a national level, having state, church and independent schools on board to participate.
Year 1 to 6 classes will participate actively and creatively in a safe space sharing their favourite book or story, while supporting the initial aims and objectives of this initiative.
During the launch, Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca said, “Reading opens up an exciting world for children and it is very important that we encourage our children to read. The beauty of the Readathon is that while it helps give children a peek into the adventures awaiting them in books, it also instils a spirit of solidarity to help those who are unable to read or communicate in traditional ways. The National Readathon aims to inspire our children to read more while nurturing in them a spirit of love and respect towards their peers.”
The first Readathon was launched in 2018, in collaboration with the National Literacy Agency, roping in primary schools all throughout Malta.
This project aims to encourage and nurture a love for reading, together with promoting literacy whilst instilling in children the values of solidarity and social justice. All proceeds from this year’s edition will be going to support another group of children who are on the autistic spectrum and non-verbal.
The event was also addressed by Prof Charles Mifsud, Chair of the National Literacy Agency and Mr Konrad Pulè, General Manager of the Malta Public Transport, sponsors of the event.
