Premier underscores necessity of fostering robust reading culture, encourages youth volunteering

Addis Ababa, June 3, 2024 (FBC) – Reading is essential for building a community that embraces rational thinking, self-reflection, and the exploration of various ideas and beliefs, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said.

To achieve this goal, several initiatives, including building libraries in major cities such as Addis Ababa, as well as in regional states, and making books more accessible through the digital Ethiopia program, are being undertaken, the Prime Minister reminded.

Additionally, he commended the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) for promoting “reading for one hundred days” this year via FM Addis 97.1, and extended this call to other media outlets, urging them to emulate EBC in fostering a reading culture throughout the country.

Noting that many young people will be on vacation in a few weeks’ time following the end of the current Ethiopian academic year, the Prime Minister emphasized, “We should work hard for them to spend their break and vacations in reading and volunteering.”

He believes that during this time, it is crucial for young people to engage in productive activities such as reading and volunteering, rather than simply idling.