World Literacy Day: ‘How young writers can change the world through reading’

Youths have been advised on how they can change the world with the power of reading and writing.

This charge was made on Monday during the First Edition of Arike Tejuoso Writing Competition prize giving Ceremony held at Ibadan Literacy Hub, Bodija, Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.

Speaking, Chief Executive Officer, Ibadan Literacy Hub, Ayo Tejuoso stated that event was organised in honor of late Mrs Arike Tejuoso, who is passionate about literacy and education.

Adding that the event which is also held in celebration of World Literary Day usually celebrated annually on 8th of September is organised by the Ibadan Literacy Hub in partnership with some organisations including, The English Manor, O.B.A Tej Enterprise, Tudor Court Consulting, Dotun Tejuoso Muscular Dystrophy Foundation and family members of the deceased in memory of the late Matriarch who passed on 6 years ago.

She said that the organisation intended to make the competition an annual event.

Tejuoso noted that to bring a change to the world, writing must be encouraged among the youth.

She further stated that parents should give support to their children on their respective skills and talents which according to her can include writing or reading.

Speaking on the theme “If I could change the world “, guest speaker at the event, Adejoke Oyekan stated that a writer can change the world through his or her voice or write-up.

She added that every story written by a writer has the power to make someone laugh, smile, or think about something in a new way.

Adejoke who is the Founder, of Purplebloom  Publishers, further explained that telling stories as a young writer between the ages of 7 and 15 is incredibly important to help understand and think about the world around them.

She however advised that a young writer can also change the world by developing their voice, inspiring others, building empathy and connection, creating change, and contributing to the world among others.

Winners of the competition include, Johnmark Micheal, the First runner up includes, Deborah Charles and the second runner is, Davina Phillips.

In an interview with the winner, an SS 1 student of SORA Height Day School, Benue State,  Johnmark Micheal, appreciated the organisers of the competition.

He stated that he was able to make it in the competition through hardwork and persistence while he urged all other young writers to work hard and pursue their dreams.