Khomas Governor Laura McLeod-Katjirua has called on children to cultivate a culture of reading to improve emotional intelligence in their educational careers.

McLeod-Katjirua made the call during the celebration of International Children's Book Day in Windhoek.

She also urged learners to develop a culture of writing to develop basic language skills and expand their vocabularies.

McLeod-Katjirua says that storybooks play an imperative role in the growth of children.

International Children's Book Day is an annual celebration held on the second of April that aims to promote literacy, inspire a love of reading, and grow the desire to read in children.

Books are said to stimulate children's imagination and expand their understanding of words.

Reading has a positive effect on mental health; it can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve concentration.

To celebrate the day and inspire others, twelve-year-old Stephanie Shaumbwako wrote her first book, From the Top to the Bottom, to encourage the culture of reading.