What if SA’s literacy crisis could be solved by more dads picking up a book to read to and in front of their kids? Thamsanqa Dumisani, a devoted father from KwaLanga, Eastern Cape, is leading the charge, demonstrating how fathers can become positive figures in their children’s literacy journey.
Eastern Cape, South Africa (19 June 2025) – Children aren’t reading nearly as much as they should be outside the classroom environment, and a lot of this arguably rests on them not having adult reading role models.
Thamsanqa Dumisani, a dedicated father from KwaLanga (Kariega) in the Eastern Cape, believes that fathers can play a significant role in changing this. By showing genuine interest in their children’s education, embracing a willingness to learn, and actively engaging in reading, fathers can truly shape a brighter future for their little ones.
He first joined the Nal’ibali team with a keen interest in developing an interest and love for reading in children, and was part of establishing reading clubs at schools and libraries in Alice.
“Nal’ibali encourages reading for enjoyment. So we were advocating that children should be taught to read for fun, so that they can naturally read with understanding, so that they do well when it came to reading for exams,” Thamsanqa explains.
Nal’ibali supports fathers as reading role models for their children through initiatives like the Nal’ibali Men’s Literacy Imbizo.
After attending the Men’s Literacy Imbizo, Thamsanqa was inspired to share how involved he was with his own children’s education and encouraged men to take initiative by being more active in literacy, particularly when it came to the education of their children and others in the community.
“What we usually do wrong, as fathers, is take the education that we were exposed to and try to merge it with the current education system. Fathers should take the time to learn about what their children are reading and research the current curriculum to better support their kids,” Thamsanqa explains.
By reading aloud, sharing stories, and demonstrating a love of reading, fathers can impact their children’s literacy development, academic performance, and overall well-being.
“It’s never too late to start reading to your kids. Education is for everyone, and a child isn’t only a mother’s responsibility.
“If we take time and learn and find ways to interact with our children, they will grow up knowing they’re loved, supported, and capable of achieving great things,” Thamsanqa emphasises.
So, dads, why not take a page from Thamsanqa’s book and build a culture of reading for enjoyment in your home? It could be one of the greatest gifts you give your children, and a whole lot of fun for you, too!
Sources: Nal’ibali
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