Reading remains a powerful tool for learning, imagination, and empowerment. 

These were the words of the Director of Namibia Library and Achieve Services in the Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture, Sara Negumbo, at the celebration of World Book Day.

Negumbo highlighted that libraries play a vital role in fostering the culture of reading.

"Our wish is for us to have a functional school library in each and every school. We have a challenge, but we do have functional libraries in some schools. We are trying to visit schools and assist the librarians so that they can manage libraries. The whole idea is for the learners to have access to library resources in order for them to supplement their schoolwork and assignments."

John Dylan Van Wyk, who is part of Arysteq Asset Management, only started reading in his mid-twenties, and reading has changed his way of thinking as well as his personal growth. 

During his talk on career development, the managing director at Arysteq Asset Management, Purvance Heuer, emphasised the critical role of mentorship in shaping one's personal and career lives.

The World Book Day celebration was organised by Arysteq Asset Management and the Namibia Library Directorate to promote literacy and education in the country.

The institute has been offering bursaries to vulnerable students since 2021.

Some public school library teachers and learners attended to encourage reading at school, and the schools present received vouchers to purchase books.