Lagos-based writer, Foluke Sijuwola Falayi, has held her 2nd Annual of Read with Me on International Literacy Day programme.
The programme held at the Lagos Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Exhibition Centre Centre, Alausa Ikeja, Lagos attracted many stakeholders that included administrators, students, writers and other book lovers.
At the Read with Me on International Literacy Day, an event organised in commemorating the International Literacy Day, Falayi, admonished the guests to learn the language of their environment.
In her speech on the occasion, she recalled her experience when she travelled for African Writers Conference in Cameroon and almost missed her way, in the city of Douala, because she could not speak French.
She said the theme of the programme was ‘Promoting multilingual education: Literacy for mutual understanding and peace.’
According to her, UNESCO designed it to foster multilingual education.
She said in her speech that “Language still remains the vehicle of communication between humans and, if used effectively, it can open doors.”
She highlighted the benefits of being multilingual as such that “brings connection, empathy, strong bond and that “multilingual improve in their chosen fields.” She further enlightened the masses, “multilingual itself is education” she encouraged people to speak more than a language and that parents should encourage their children to speak more than a language.
The host, Foluke Sijuwola Falayi read to her guests, from one of her books, Sam Goes to College, to mark the International Literacy Day.
Two workshops were taken by Aderonke Fateye K-Eseka, Director of Talent Plus Resources International; and the President of RealOne Art Studio, Rilwan Adebayo.
Students from invited schools made presentations and spoke in various languages that they also interpreted.
The guests were awed as some young students displayed proficiency in three or more languages.
Other experts that made presentations at the programme include Lynda Alphaeus,
Director Lagos Office , Nigerian Copyright Commission; Richard Mammah, President, Network of Book Clubs and Reading Culture Promoters in Nigeria, NBRP; Dorothy Mkparu (author/educational consultant); Oluwaseyi Oke
Principal Consultant, Belteros Consulting and Ifeoluwa Aduradola, Onkawe Book Club;
