DP World and Motus Open 100th School Library
The education trust reaches a major milestone in its effort to boost foundational literacy across South African schools.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Education — General
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The DP World and Motus Community Trust celebrated the opening of its 100th school library on 27 October 2026. This literacy programme now supports more than 230,000 learners across South Africa.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to address foundational literacy challenges, as only 30% of South African Grade 1-3 learners currently meet reading benchmarks in their home language. By improving reading comprehension, the programme helps students progress more effectively in all areas of their education.
The programme provides books, technology, and trained librarian assistants to 125,000 learners on a daily basis. These resources are designed to facilitate reading for meaning and comprehension.
The players
DP World and Motus Community Trust
This organisation manages the long-running literacy programme that provides library infrastructure and training to South African schools.
The details
The programme delivers dedicated reading spaces and specialised assistants to support young learners in their academic development. By providing consistent access to books and technology, the initiative seeks to bridge the gap in basic education resources.
Timeline
2003: Community-development initiative established
2010: Libraries became central component of education programme
2025: Department of Basic Education survey conducted
27 October 2026: 100th library opened
Culture Shift
The programme marks a significant shift in addressing the national reading crisis, following the benchmark standards set by the Department of Basic Education's Early Grade Reading Assessment. It represents a move toward private-sector involvement in bridging gaps in foundational public school literacy.
Students and teachers in participating communities gain daily access to structured reading programmes and library resources. These facilities provide a quiet, resourced environment intended to help improve individual reading comprehension levels.
The takeaway
Access to dedicated library spaces and trained assistants is a critical factor in improving early childhood literacy outcomes. Providing these resources helps schools create environments where reading for comprehension becomes a daily habit for young students.
Further reading
Learn more about local school initiatives by visiting Education — General.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Social TV.
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