In celebration of the importance of literacy, the Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation embarked on the 2025 edition of the Reja Buka Reading Festival, taking place from 15-17 October at the Bon Hotel in Bloemfontein.
The Reja Buka competition encompasses various reading programs aimed at improving reading skills among school-going children aged 9-16, fostering a love for reading. Through this initiative, children are encouraged to understand the significance of reading in enhancing their formal education, which contributes to improved academic achievement.

The festival aims to elevate the literacy levels among Free State learners and young adults in local communities. Participants are expected to explore a wide variety of books, primarily fiction, as the activities for the Reading Festival have been derived from these literary sources.

Activities for the Reja Buka Reading Festival commenced at the local library level in June 2025, progressing through municipal and district levels, leading up to the provincial competition.

Various categories and grades are featured for learners, including the English Spelling Bee, Sesotho Spelling, English Public Speaking, and English Book Review. The participating grades span from 3 to 9, ensuring broad engagement.
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