HOW SYNW ESTABLISHED DIGITAL LIBRARIES AND PAPERLESS BOOK CLUBS IN 15 SCHOOLS IN OYO STATE
The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) successfully established digital libraries and paperless book clubs in 15 secondary schools across Oyo State. This initiative was introduced during the second edition of the Read Across Nigeria project in 2017, which featured readings in 18 states of the federation.
The guest celebrant for the 2017 edition of the Read Across Nigeria project was Hadjia (Mrs) Hafsat Abdulwaheed, a Nigerian author who writes mainly in Hausa. Hadjia Abdulwaheed is also a poet and women's rights activist who has written more than 30 books, only five of which have been published.
The national headquarters of SYNW, under the leadership of Wole Adedoyin, used the occasion to establish digital libraries and paperless book clubs in St. Patrick Grammar School, Queens of Apostle, Oluyoro Oke Ofa, Oke Ibadan Boys High School, Oba Akinyele Memorial High School, Loyola College, Lagelu Grammar School, Islamic High School, Isabatudeen Girls Grammar School, God’s Blessing Comprehensive College, Bashorun Ojoo High School, Anglican Commercial Grammar School, Alegongo Community High School, Agugu Boys High School, and Adesina College.
The digital libraries contain a variety of e-books on different subjects, literature books (poetry, prose, and drama) and other relevant materials to aid students' learning. The paperless book clubs also provide a platform for students to interact with each other, share ideas and discuss literature, creating a community of readers electronically.
The Read Across Nigeria project, which began in 2016, is an annual event aimed at promoting the culture of reading among Nigerians, particularly young people. The project has become a popular event in the literary community, attracting renowned authors and intellectuals as guests of honor.
The establishment of digital libraries and paperless book clubs in Oyo State schools is a major milestone in SYNW's efforts to promote the culture of reading and improve access to educational materials in Nigeria.
The use of digital libraries and paperless book clubs also has environmental benefits, as it reduces the need for paper and other physical resources. This is in line with SYNW's commitment to promoting sustainable development and preserving the environment.
Speaking on the initiative, Wole Adedoyin, the National Coordinator of SYNW, said, "We are excited to establish digital libraries and paperless book clubs in these schools. Our aim is to promote a culture of reading among young Nigerians and improve access to educational materials. We hope that this initiative will inspire more schools and organizations to embrace digital technologies in promoting education and sustainable development."
The establishment of digital libraries and paperless book clubs in Oyo State schools has already started yielding positive results. Students now have access to a wide range of educational materials, which has improved their academic performance and stimulated their interest in reading and literature.
The initiative has also received widespread support from stakeholders in the education and literary sectors, who have commended SYNW for its efforts in promoting reading and education in Nigeria.
The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) is a literary organization established in 2010 to promote and support the development of young Nigerian writers. The organization has been at the forefront of promoting reading, writing, and literary culture in Nigeria through various initiatives, including the Read Across Nigeria project, creative writing workshops, and literary competitions.