Parkhill’s readers are tomorrow’s leaders
Principal, Mr Larry Naidoo, said that through this project, it is envisioned that pupils will grow from strength to strength by making sure that they can read and learn.
The love for reading and story-telling was ignited at Parkhill Secondary School in Greenwood Park when pupils, staff and management launched the revamped library facility, recently.
What was once a room used as a gym and to store equipment has now been transformed into a world filled with the literary work of local writers and famous authors, and collections of print ranging in various categories.
The upgraded library is a haven for pupils to study, research, learn, and dive deep into a good book. Steering the revamp initiative is HOD of languages, Mrs K Maharaj, who is an avid reader herself.
She said the project was initially started by the grade 11 youth leaders of 2018 and former teacher, Mrs Nicolene Pillay, who had secured a sponsorship from the WNS Cares Foundation. However, when COVID struck, it was halted.
Thereafter, the grand library was restored through the hard work and efforts of Mrs Maharaj and pupils, who had removed all the stored equipment, painted the room and stored the books on shelves, turning it into a welcoming scholar’s paradise.
Maharaj pointed out that pupils were ecstatic about the newly upgraded library as they are eager to read and learn, and it will make doing homework much easier for them as they will have access to an abundance of research materials.
“Given the impetus of reading in the curriculum, there was a dire need for a library at the school,” she said.
Speaking on the importance of reading, Maharaj said that it not only improves vocabulary but also sharpens overall communication skills.
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“Reading exposes you to a wide range of perspectives and diverse viewpoints. You encounter characters and narrators and this fosters empathy- you become immersed in the lives of the various characters, embracing your emotional intelligence,” she said.
Maharaj added that reading also makes you a mindful communicator as attention is required when reading. You become a more present and engaged communicator,” she said.
This was surely evident at the launch as pupils belonging to the book club displayed their love for books and reading through their passionate renditions of quotes by famous authors and through songs. Principal, Mr Larry Naidoo, said that through this project, it is envisioned that pupils will grow from strength to strength by making sure that they can read and learn.
“If they can read, then they can comprehend. We hope to eventually get the pupils onto tablets to study from. We also have internet access in the study hall (situated next to the library) so pupils can log onto the internet for research on a computer, and we will be putting in a photocopy machine. Pupils will have access to all these kinds of mediums which will help in developing and empowering their minds,” he said.
The school is urging the community to donate books or any kind of reading material to the library, as well as an air-con to keep pupils and staff cool. Should you wish to donate, contact Mrs K Maharaj on 084-585-8157.
