Ghana must build a national reading culture to drive knowledge economy—Educationist

Educational consultant Reverend Acheampong E. S. Builderman has called on Ghanaians to establish a national culture of reading, writing, and critical thinking. He asserts that the country cannot develop a knowledge-driven economy without a populace that reads, writes, and thinks critically. According to Builderman, literacy is more than just the ability to read and write; it also involves questioning information, understanding history, thinking independently, and translating knowledge into responsible action.

As the world commemorated International Literacy Day on September 8, Builderman emphasized the importance of reading in driving development. He pointed out that a reading nation possesses the capability to question the information it receives, driving meaningful action. Builderman urged parents to instill a love for books in their children early in life, schools to foster a strong reading culture, and churches to set up libraries and reading programs.

He further emphasized that education is a lifelong process, and one must continue learning to grow. Builderman argued that sustainable development requires citizens who can acquire knowledge, analyze problems, generate ideas, and actively participate in public life. He stressed the importance of Africans recognizing their history and critically examining how contemporary leaders are managing their resources.

Builderman's latest book, Africa Beware: The Chains, the Choice, and the Almighty God Who Sets a Continent Free, explores the theme of responsibility through the figures of a 'steward' and a 'thief.'