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Mr Ken Dzirasah (left), interacting with Mr Alban Bagbin (right), Speaker of Parliament and Mr Kojo Yankah (middle), a former Member of Parliament and Chairman for the occasion. Picture: NII MARTEY M. BOTCHWAY
Mr Ken Dzirasah (left), interacting with Mr Alban Bagbin (right), Speaker of Parliament and Mr Kojo Yankah (middle), a former Member of Parliament and Chairman for the occasion. Picture: NII MARTEY M. BOTCHWAY

Revive reading culture among youth - Speaker of Parliament appeals to govt

The Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban S. K. Bagbin, has appealed to the government to develop innovative strategies that will revive the culture and habit of reading particularly among the youth.

Describing reading as one of the most powerful means of accessing information, Mr Bagbin expressed concern that Ghana’s reading culture, “is gradually ebbing away”, a situation he said had a negative impact on education as well as knowledge and skills acquisition.

He said although the advent of technology had brought about changes in how to access information, it should not be a substitute for reading books.

“The interruptions and distractions brought about by the advances in technology are immense.

“However, this should be when serious people will start thinking out of the box to find innovative means of mitigating the impact of the deficiency in reading culture on education, knowledge and skills acquisition, and eventually on national development and growth,” he said.

Book Launch

Mr Bagbin made the remarks during the launch of a book titled: “My Defining Moments: A Trip From The Village to Parliament and Beyond”, by a former Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Mr Kenneth Dzirasah.

In the book, the former Member of Parliament (MP) for Ayawaso West Wuogon and South Tongu, chronicles his life experiences from early childhood through to his adult life, capturing intriguing aspects of his life as a lawyer, journalist, and politician.

The writer also raises a few politico-legal issues that have provoked debate and dominated public discourse in the past, and shares his perspectives on them.

Telenovelas

Mr Bagbin expressed concern over the rising interest in telenovelas which, he said, had no bearing on the country’s culture.

He rather encouraged the youth to take reading seriously “if they want to understand yesterday so that they can effectively plan for today against tomorrow.”

The Speaker commended Mr Dzirasah for documenting his experiences and recommended the book for the youth especially those who were pursuing a career in journalism, law, and politics.

“My perusal of the book convinces me that it is a “textbook” of life for the study of the younger generations. The book exemplifies perseverance, self-belief, fortitude and real hard work in service to country,” he said.

Inspiration

Sharing highlights of the book, Mr Dzirasah said the book was borne out of his desire to share his experiences, especially with young politicians who might be excited about the prospects of succeeding in politics.

“If the young politician must look out for political landmines; if in the field he must exercise caution at all times; if he must be fastidious in the face of political adversity and above all if he desires adventure with an eye on the international stage, then this book is a recommended reading,” he said.

The President and Founder of the African University College of Communications (AUCC)), Mr Kojo Yankah, appealed to media organisations to dedicate a column for literary reviews to whip up interest in reading and contribute to information sharing.

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