Promoting a Reading Culture under National Reading Month 2026

A special reading promotion programme was organised by the Nochchiyagama Public Library, operating under the Nochchiyagama Pradeshiya Sabha, in celebration of National Reading Month 2026. The programme was conducted on 4 November 2026, from 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., at the Nochchiyagama Pradeshiya Sabha premises, under the theme “Divi Athi Thuru – Akuru Mithuru”.

The main objective of the programme was to encourage schoolchildren to develop an interest in reading and cultivate good reading habits. Accordingly, a special reading awareness programme was conducted for Grade 6 students of Halmillawa Sri Dutugemunu National School.

The programme was conducted with the resource contributions of Mrs. A. S. Siriwardana, Librarian; Mrs. W. P. T. Dilrukshi, Senior Assistant Librarian; and Ms. M. G. H. K. Wijerathne, Assistant Librarian, of Rajarata University of Sri Lanka. The resource persons guided the students through the programme, highlighting the importance of reading and its benefits in everyday life. The students participated enthusiastically in the programme and showed great interest in the activities. The programme provided a valuable opportunity to inspire young learners to develop a lifelong love of reading and build a strong reading culture within the community.