Celebrating World Read Aloud Day: power of storytelling in SA

TODAY is World Read Aloud Day, a global celebration dedicated to the simple but powerful act of reading aloud.

- LUTHO PASIYA

Observed annually on the first Wednesday of February, the day brings together children, parents, teachers, authors and communities to share stories, strengthen literacy and remind people that reading is not only a skill but a shared experience.

World Read Aloud Day was established in 2010 by LitWorld, a global literacy organisation focused on education, empowerment and access to books.

The initiative was created to raise awareness about literacy as a human right and to highlight the millions of children around the world who still lack access to books, learning resources and quality education.

By encouraging people to read aloud on the same day across countries and cultures, the campaign aims to build a global community around stories.

At its core, the day is about connection. Reading aloud slows things down. It invites listening, imagination and conversation. For children, it builds vocabulary, confidence and comprehension.

For adults, it reintroduces the joy of storytelling and creates space for reflection and dialogue. Studies consistently show that reading aloud improves language development, strengthens emotional bonds and supports learning outcomes, especially in early childhood.

Celebrating World Read Aloud Day is important because literacy remains unevenly distributed across the world. In many parts of the world, including South Africa, access to books remains shaped by economic inequality, language barriers, and limited resources.