On 8th September 2019, Rwanda joined the World to celebrate the International Literacy Day. UNESCO’s theme for International Literacy Day 2019 is: “Literacy and Multilingualism.” The local theme is “Reading and writing in different languages is a source of knowledge.” and celebrations were held at Nyagisenyi Stadium in Nyamagabe district Southern Province. The event was also marked by the launch of National Literacy Month and literacy exhibitions. 

 The Minister of State Dr.Isaac MUNYAKAZI together with the Minister of Sports and Culture Mrs Espérance NYIRASAFARI graced this important event, other high profile present at the event  include the Ambassador of the United States of America to Rwanda, His  Excellency Peter Vrooman , The representative of French Embassy to Rwanda Mrs Geromine Gouleau and the Mayor of Nyamagabe district  UWAMAHORO Bonaventure, and local leaders .

  In his address, Dr. MUNYAKAZI said: We have launched the National  Literacy Month to encourage households, communities and schools to engage in activities that promote the reading and writing culture. “He later emphasized that the culture of reading can not be attained without  the participation of each and every one, therefore he called upon parents to set an example  in implementing the reading culture  at home by reading  books themselves, reading for their children who can not read and buying storybooks for those who are at school.

The National Literacy Month ( September 2019) will partly coincide  with the Cultural Month in schools that was launched  by Honourable Minister of State Dr. Isaac MUNYAKAZI on August 16th and will last until September 16th in a bid to stress the importance of culture, as it is the pillar of all knowledge.

Referring to this cultural month,  the Minister of Sports and Culture said that promoting the reading and writing culture is a great step to the promotion of national culture.

During this event, 30 students ( one per district) , who were selected as national winners of  the "Andika Rwanda Competition 2019 "  were awarded.  Each student was given a certificate, his/her published storybook ( the one she/he wrote and that emerged bet in the district),  scholastic materials, and a tablet. These 30 storybooks will be multiplied  and distributed into different schools to promote the reading and writing culture in schoolchildren.

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