The Department of Basic Education (DBE), in partnership with the National Education Collaboration Trust (NECT) and leading literacy organisations, officially launched the National Literacy Promotion Toolkit Initiative during a three-day National Launch and Capacity Building Workshop held from 14–16 July 2026 at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park.
Held under the theme, “From Plans to Implementation: Building a Reading Culture Together,” the workshop marked the official rollout of the Literacy Promotion Toolkit and advances Pillar Four of the National Reading Literacy Strategy, which aims to promote reading and strengthen a culture of literacy across South Africa.
The workshop brought together representatives from Provincial Education Departments, Provincial Steering Committees, District Reading Collectives and literacy partners to strengthen implementation and support the rollout of the toolkit across provinces and districts.
The programme also showcased flagship literacy initiatives, including Nal’ibali Reading Clubs and Reading Campaigns, Room to Read’s School Library Development Programme and the National Spelling Bee Programme, highlighting collaborative efforts to improve reading outcomes for every learner.
NECT joined the DBE alongside Funda Wande, NASCEE, Read to Lead, A Better Africa Foundation, Room to Read and Nal’ibali in reaffirming a shared commitment to strengthening foundational learning through coordinated literacy interventions.
The initiative reinforces the importance of partnership in building a nation of readers and ensuring that every learner develops the reading skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.