For Motlalepula Khokho, the selection is more than just a title. It is an opportunity to champion literacy, inspire young people to embrace reading, and encourage communities to take an active role in improving literacy levels.

“My role as Youth Literacy Ambassador was created to amplify the importance of education and inspire community action,” he said. Khokho’s passion for literacy began with a love for writing. He started a blog focusing mainly on mental health, an experience that inspired him to become a better writer and a more committed reader.

“I started writing back in 2021 on my blog, which was mainly slanted towards mental health. The desire to become a good writer encouraged me to read and write more.”

Motlalepula Khokho. Photo supplied

Through his advocacy work, Khokho has observed learning challenges in many communities extend beyond the ability to read words on a page. “There are so many young people who can read but are unable to interpret what is being said in the text.

“Most young children in my community, particularly teenagers and prepubescents, have the capacity to read whatever content you give them. However, it becomes a major issue when you ask them to explain or expand on what they have just read.”

True literacy goes beyond reading aloud. “The pervasive issue is comprehension levels and inability to apply critical thinking skills. Comprehension skills comprise of reading for meaning, which is something many communities across the globe continue to grapple with.”

Like many inspiring journeys, Khokho’s was shaped by a teacher who recognised his potential. He credits his former secondary school teacher, Christian Cindi, from Meyerton High School in the Vaal Triangle, for igniting his passion for education and lifelong learning.

“During my high school career, I had an exceptional and shrewd teacher who greatly embodied his love for teaching. He once said to me education breeds success and those words are etched in my mind.”

As youth literacy ambassador, Khokho is eager to use the platform to make a meaningful impact while developing his own leadership and advocacy skills.

This programme equips young people with advocacy skills. Photo supplied

“This programme gives young people an opportunity to drive meaningful change in their communities while equipping them with valuable leadership and advocacy skills. I’m looking forward to honing my communication skills, broadening my horizons and, most importantly, learning from my counterparts about their values and life experiences.”

The University of the Free State education student believes the experience will also strengthen his future prospects. “This programme will improve my chances of securing better opportunities as a student pursuing education at UFS. It will shape me into a better person in every aspect and open up even more opportunities in the long run.” 

Khokho believes the programme highlights the need for greater investment in literacy initiatives in a country where learning remains a significant challenge. “The law makers and government should be inspired to follow organisations such as this one. If we are yet to reduce and eradicate this scourge, we have to be all hands on deck.”

He hopes to inspire young people to develop a genuine passion for reading, whether in small ways or on a much larger scale. For him, every young person who discovers the joy of reading represents progress towards a more literate and empowered future.

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa

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