Chat-based literacy support with government
As technology continues to shape the way we live and learn, South Africa is using digital tools to strengthen literacy among young learners. One key initiative driving this work is the Reading Champions programme, a Presidential Employment Initiative launched in 2021.
The programme is managed by the National Education Collaboration Trust (NECT) on behalf of the Department of Basic Education. Its aim is to employ young adults as Reading Champions who support teachers, encourage reading, and help children develop strong early literacy skills.
Building a Reading Culture
Reading Champions play an important role in their schools and communities. They support reading activities in classrooms and libraries, help run reading clubs, and encourage children to read for enjoyment and understanding.
Today, the programme is active in more than 12,000 public schools across all nine provinces, working towards a shared goal: building a strong and positive reading culture across South Africa.
Funda Wande’s Role as a Support Partner
Funda Wande is a national support partner in the Reading Champions programme, providing digital tools that help with support, monitoring, and evaluation. A key innovation is the Reading Champions WhatsApp chatbot.
The chatbot is easy to use and designed to feel like a real conversation. It gives Reading Champions quick access to important information and support, including:
Monitoring and evaluation tools to track their work
Monthly plans and reminders to help them stay organised
Reading resources and training materials
Frequently asked questions and guidance when support is needed
By using this digital tool, Reading Champions can get help at the right time and focus on making a real difference in their schools.
Training and Support
The development and rollout of the chatbot is led by Sibabaliwe Zwide, Funda Wande’s E-learning Coordinator. She has trained subject advisors in all provinces on how to use the chatbot, complete monitoring forms, and support Reading Champions effectively.
The training also shows how Reading Champions can access additional reading resources and online training from partner organisations such as Nal’ibali and Room to Read.
Looking Ahead
Funda Wande remains committed to supporting Reading Champions with practical, easy-to-use digital tools. After being trained by subject advisors, Reading Champions use these tools to strengthen reading activities in their schools and communities.
This work supports Funda Wande’s core mission: ensuring that children in South Africa learn to read for meaning.
By combining technology with youth employment and literacy support, the Reading Champions programme is helping to create lasting change. It is laying the foundation for stronger reading skills today and a brighter future for generations to come.
