Improving the Lives of Children through Literacy
Steven Hook / 28 June 2016
Empowering Children in Mozambique through Literacy
The children of Mozambique face many challenges in their life. Not just due to poverty and poor infrastructure – lack of education also limits the children’s opportunities. In Mozambique, a large number of children are not going to school due to lack of facilities and resources.
We all know the powers of literacy, which extend far beyond reading and writing. Literacy can contribute to economic growth, lessen poverty and crime, promote democracy, and prevent diseases such as HIV/AIDS through access to information. Literacy empowers individuals, boosting self-confidence and personal growth.
RapidStudio and Livro Aberto: Changing Lives Together
In these tough times, RapidStudio is proud to collaborate with Livro Aberto. Since its founding in 2007, Livro Aberto (meaning “open book”) has worked to develop a reading culture in Mozambique. By providing books, educational workshops, and creative activities, Livro Aberto inspires children to read and write more, equipping them for brighter futures.
One of Livro Aberto’s most inspiring initiatives is the “Author Buddy” project. This project connects underprivileged students with their peers from international schools. Through email communication, students build connections and plan an excursion to explore Mozambique’s historical, cultural, and popular landmarks. Using these experiences and photographs, the author buddies create books that capture their shared journey.
Professionally Published Books
The books, professionally published by RapidStudio, serve as cherished keepsakes and tools for promoting literacy. They are distributed to children and displayed in the Livro Aberto Children’s Library, Literacy, and Language Centre, located in the public gardens of Maputo. These projects not only encourage reading but also foster hands-on learning through creative storytelling using recycled materials.
About Livro Aberto
Livro Aberto, or “Open Book,” was founded in 2007 with the aim of addressing gaps in literacy education and providing essential resources to children in Mozambique. In partnership with Peace Corps Volunteers and local communities, Livro Aberto’s literacy programs reach hundreds of children weekly through:
- 📚 Mobile library activities
- ✏️ Literacy workshops in schools and community spaces
- 🏫 A newly opened public library in Maputo
Livro Aberto has also produced culturally and linguistically relevant children’s books that resonate with Mozambican children. Through partnerships with Goodwill Community Foundation, Maputo International School, and RapidStudio, Livro Aberto’s initiatives like the “Author Buddies” project are changing lives and creating opportunities for young learners.
RapidStudio is honoured to play a role in supporting Livro Aberto’s vision and helping to shape a brighter future for the children of Mozambique.
Learn More
For more information about Livro Aberto, visit their official website and discover how you can get involved in supporting their work.
At RapidStudio, we believe in the power of stories and education. Together, we can make a difference.