Read-a-thon encourages reading, creativity and learning among urban children

To foster a love for reading, encourage creative thinking, and inspire children's interest in education, World Vision Bangladesh's LIFE Centres Project organised a day-long Read-a-thon in Mirpur on Thursday.

The event began with the National Anthem, followed by a welcome address from Prerona Chisim, Project Manager (PNS & Corporate), LIFE Centres Project, who highlighted the objectives and significance of the initiative.

One of the major attractions of the programme was a series of educational and interactive competitions featuring enthusiastic participation from children, according to a press release.

The young participants competed in Reading, Paragraph Writing, Puzzle Solving, Storytelling, and Live Quiz competitions, facilitated by Angelica Pauline Gomes and other project facilitators.

Children from different LIFE Learning Centres also captivated the audience with vibrant cultural performances.

The programme included an inaugural dance by Rongdhonu Learning Centre, poetry recitation by Alor Disha Learning Centre, an educational drama on the importance of education along with a paper dance by Surjomukhi Learning Centre, and a lively action song performed by children from Projapoti Learning Centre.

Teacher representative Nazma Akter Brishti, parent representative Shilpi Begum, and child representatives Mahfuza and Esha shared their experiences during the event. They spoke about the positive changes in children's educational journey, growing self-confidence, and the impact of the LIFE Learning Centres on their lives.

A special exhibition showcasing children's creative work and educational materials was also organised. Distinguished guests visited the exhibition stalls and appreciated the children's creativity, imagination, and learning achievements, which reflected their confidence and continuous development.

The programme was attended by distinguished guests including Mir Abdul Awal Al Mehdi, Director (Policy and Operations), Directorate of Primary Education; Md Zainal Abedin, Assistant Director (Pre-Primary and Inclusive Education) and District Primary Education Officer, Dhaka; Khan Mansura Akter Tuhin; Lima Hanna Daring, Director, Operations and Technical Programme, World Vision Bangladesh; and Mohammad Kamruzzaman Kalam, Lead, Education Programme, World Vision Bangladesh.

Addressing the gathering, Mir Abdul Awal Al Mehdi said, "Today's exhibition of children's creative work has truly impressed me. Their confidence, creativity, performances, recitations, and participation in various competitions are highly commendable. I believe these children have the potential to become the future leaders of our country."

Encouraging the children, he added, "Never drop out of school under any circumstances. If you face any challenge in continuing your education, inform your school authorities and World Vision Bangladesh. We all want you to continue your studies and pursue your dreams because education is the foundation of both personal success and national development."

The event concluded with a prize-giving ceremony, where winners and participants received awards for their outstanding performances. Distinguished guests were also presented with tokens of appreciation in recognition of their support.

The closing remarks were delivered by Jenny Mildred D'Cruz, Deputy Director, Field Operations (Southern Bangladesh Cluster). Reaffirming her commitment to ensuring a safe, inclusive, and education-friendly future for every child, they officially brought the Read-a-thon celebration to a close.