The once-vibrant reading culture is being rapidly replaced by technology. Students are increasingly turning to the internet for quick answers rather than reading widely. Abdikarim Hassan, the Director of Book Life School Uniform made this observation, during the opening of the Book Life branch at BBS Mall in Eastleigh, Nairobi.
With the ever-changing technology and the emergence of Artificial Intelligence, AI, the situation could get worse.
According to Hassan, Book Life is a one-stop-shop that is set to redefine the city’s reading culture.
“I have always wanted to provide quality resources to learners and ensure that everything they need is available in one place,” Abdikarim made the remarks during the colourful event.
Starehe Sub-County Director of Education, Nancy Macharia, also highlighted the alarming trend in reading, stating that only 20% of today’s school-going children regularly read books.
“The decline in reading habits has denied students the depth of knowledge and communication skills that come from broad reading,” Ms Macharia said.
Speaking at the event, Nairobi County Executive Member in charge of Education Brian Mulama, urged parents to closely monitor their children’s reading habits.
He emphasized the importance of the new Book life branch in Eastleigh, which offers a wide variety of school-related products, including books, uniforms, and stationery.
“Parents should make use of this facility to nurture a love for reading in their children,” he added.
Book Life Opens Doors in Eastleigh
Book life provides a comprehensive range of educational services. From storybooks to all kinds of school uniforms, the facility aims to cater to the needs of the local community.
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Abdikarim Hassan, the director, explained that the objective of the Eastleigh branch is to bring much-needed educational resources to Kamukunji residents.
“Our goal is to make learning materials more accessible to students and parents alike,” he said.
Dignitaries Grace the Occasion
A host of high-profile leaders graced the event including Somalia’s Ambassador to Kenya, Jibril Abdullahi, Kamukunji Member of Parliament, Yusuf Hassan, and Eastleigh North MCA, Dabar Ahmed Dabar.
Representatives from both the national and county education ministries were also in attendance.
Ambassador Abdullahi lauded the initiative, noting that the name “Book life” speaks volumes about the importance of education.
“It’s inspiring to see how Kenyans are united in promoting education, regardless of background. This initiative should serve as an example to neighbouring countries,” he said.
Kamukunji lawmaker Yusuf described education as the number one equalizer in life, welcoming Book Life to Eastleigh’s fast-growing business portfolio.
“This new venture, led by youth leader Abdikarim Hassan Barbaar, is a valuable addition to the community,” stated the MP.
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In his remarks, Dabar praised the establishment of the Book life branch, calling it a milestone for the community.
He urged more investors to set up similar ventures to promote education and normalize the culture of reading among the youth.
Future Expansion Plans
Looking ahead, Abdikarim Hassan announced that Book life plans to expand to over 10 counties by 2025, aiming to make a lasting impact on the education sector.
“Our vision is to make a difference in today’s society by making educational resources more accessible to all,” he said.
“Our shop is not only large and well-stocked with the necessary learning equipment, but we also have a professional team ready to serve parents and students with the highest level of hospitality.”
With the opening of this new branch, Book life hopes to rekindle the culture of reading and provide the necessary tools to ensure that students in Kamukunji and beyond are well-equipped for their educational journeys.
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