Nairobi Pupils Celebrate Literacy Day With County-Wide Activities

On September 8, 2025, pupils across Nairobi came together to celebrate International Literacy Day through a series of engaging county-wide activities aimed at promoting reading, writing, and digital literacy. Schools organized events ranging from spelling bees and storytelling sessions to book fairs and digital learning workshops. The theme for this year’s celebration, Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era, echoed UNESCO’s global call to equip learners with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Public and private schools alike embraced the occasion with creativity and enthusiasm. In Westlands, students participated in a literacy-themed parade, while in Embakasi, learners showcased their writing talents through essay competitions and poetry readings. Teachers facilitated group discussions on the importance of literacy for personal and societal growth, and several schools hosted guest speakers from publishing houses and tech firms to highlight the role of digital tools in modern education. The Nairobi County Education Office supported the initiative by distributing reading materials and encouraging schools to integrate digital platforms into their literacy programs.
The impact of the celebrations was felt beyond the classroom. Parents reported renewed interest in reading among their children, and educators praised the day for reinforcing the goals of Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). This year’s Literacy Day reminded us that literacy is not just about books—it’s about empowering learners to navigate the world with confidence, said a teacher from Lang’ata. With plans to expand digital literacy programs and host quarterly reading festivals, Nairobi’s education community is committed to making literacy a lifelong journey for every child.