The Nelson Mandela Foundation marks Human Rights Day by affirming reading as a fundamental right

On Human Rights Day, 21 March 2026, the Nelson Mandela Foundation hosted a special edition of its Making Reading Fun programme, bringing together children, families, and authors to centre literacy as a fundamental human right.

As South Africa reflects on the legacy of Sharpeville and the ongoing struggle for dignity and equality, the Foundation used storytelling to highlight a critical truth: without the ability to read for meaning, many children are excluded from fully participating in society.

At a time when the majority of Grade 4 learners in South Africa cannot read for meaning, access to books, language, and literacy is not simply an educational issue; it is a matter of justice.

“Over the past four years, this programme has been about more than reading, it has been about bringing people together and building a community,” said Mathabo Tlali, author and reader of the Making Reading Fun programme. “Seeing children, families and partners connect through stories reminds us of what is possible when we invest in literacy.”

The programme featured guest authors Gomolemo Moagi, author of Bontle’s New Wheels, Naledi Setzin, and Mahlohonolo Thulo, reflecting the Foundation’s growing commitment to creating platforms for children’s book authors and nurturing intergenerational storytelling.

Through the interactive sessions, children engaged directly with authors, asked questions, and shared their own stories, experiencing reading not only as a skill but as a source of confidence, imagination, and expression. Books were also made available to encourage reading beyond the event and into homes and communities.

This Human Rights Day activation was a call to action. The Foundation reaffirmed that building a just and equitable society requires ensuring that every child has access to the tools of learning, language, and self-expression.

“Education is a fundamental human right, and reading with understanding sits at its core,” said Ann-Young Maharaj, Researcher and Exhibition Coordinator at the Nelson Mandela Foundation.

"Programmes like Making Reading Fun help children not only learn to read, but to make sense of the world around them.” She added.

ENDS