The Madhesh Provincial-level conference of community and public libraries assembled in Lahan, Siraha, echoing a resounding call for the development of a healthy reading culture in the region.
The conference brought together key stakeholders who emphasized the urgent need to cultivate a culture of reading amidst concerns over its decline. Speakers at the event raised apprehensions regarding the diminishing reading habits, largely influenced by the unescapable impact of social media and a growing inclination towards superficial studies.
Federal Member of Parliament, Ganga Prasad Yadav, highlighted the concerning trend of dwindling interest in reading, attributing it to the allure of various forms of entertainment and addiction. Stressing the indispensable link between reading culture and social development, Yadav declared, "Enhancing youth awareness and promoting reading culture are indispensable for achieving social development."
Additionally, Yadav drew attention to the low literacy rate in Madhesh Province, urging governmental bodies at all levels to prioritize investment in education and foster conducive learning environments.
Rajendra Prasad Chaudhary, a Member of the Madhesh Province Assembly, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the necessity for constructing libraries in the province. Chaudhary firmly believes that by nurturing a reading culture, the region could not only achieve social development but also pave the way for prosperity.
The General Secretary of the Nepal Library Association, Rajendra Pandey, the President of the Nepal Library Association in Koshi Province, Bharat Khadka, the Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Yadav Chandra Niraula, the Deputy Professor of JS Muraka Campus, Lahan Jitendra Dev Chaudhary, and others stressed that education is the foundation of social development and emphasized the need to develop a reading culture.
