Reading helps students develop in the classroom, as well as forming more empathetic citizens.
The importance of reading for education is not restricted to school performance. Reading is an act of freedom that expands vocabulary, stimulates critical thinking and develops creativity. From an early age, contact with books helps to form individuals who are more aware, curious and prepared for the challenges of the world. It is through reading that children and young people build up a repertoire, learn to communicate better and develop empathy by getting to know other cultures, stories and points of view.
In addition, reading strengthens the learning process in all areas of knowledge. Students who read often find it easier to interpret texts, solve problems and connect ideas. By immersing themselves in different narratives, they also learn to imagine new futures for themselves and their community. This is why reading should be seen as a fundamental right and an essential tool for guaranteeing quality education.
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Several studies have shown that reading from an early age develops cognitive, emotional and social skills. When children have frequent contact with books, they acquire a richer vocabulary, improve their writing skills, stimulate creativity and are able to communicate more clearly. In addition, the habit of reading contributes to school performance in all subjects.
But the importance of reading for education goes far beyond academic results. Reading forms more empathetic citizens, capable of putting themselves in other people’s shoes and understanding different realities. It is through stories that students come to understand the world – and also to dream of a better future.
The Ramacrisna Institute believes in the power of reading, considering it a right and an essential pillar in the education of children and young people. Because more than just a habit, reading is a portal that expands the world and gives voice to dreams. That’s why it invests in actions that bring the literary universe into the daily lives of its students, in a light, accessible and enchanting way.
One of the main symbols of this incentive to read at the Institute is the Professor Arlindo Corrêa da Silva Library, which is celebrating its 51st anniversary. More than just a physical space with shelves and books, it is a living environment where children and young people discover new possibilities every day.
And to celebrate this milestone, the Institute has prepared a special program with:
The Mala de Leitura project takes books to spaces that don’t have adequate collections or infrastructure, such as public schools, community nurseries and Basic Health Units, for example. The initiative reinforces the importance of reading for education, especially in communities where contact with books is still limited.
Each suitcase carries around 40 books and, when opened, becomes a display shelf – a creative solution for places that don’t even have shelves. But the project goes beyond delivery: each new suitcase arrives with a special celebration, including theatrical performances inspired by the literary works, making the moment even more magical for the children. The project is a partnership between the Ramacrisna Institute and the companies Weg and Machado Meyer, through the Federal Culture Incentive Law, and will benefit 75 kindergartens in Betim.
Recognized nationally, Mala de Leitura has already received important awards, such as Best Project to Encourage Reading in Brazil (2013), granted by the National Foundation for Children’s and Youth Books. It was also chosen by popular vote in the Leitura do Bem competition, promoted by TV Alterosa and the newspaper Estado de Minas, in partnership with Livraria Leitura.
At Ramacrisna, education goes far beyond the school curriculum. The institution promotes activities involving culture, sport, technology and handicrafts, believing that comprehensive education prepares not only for the job market, but also for life.
We need to value reading as a tool for social transformation. Giving access to books means offering freedom, self-esteem and hope to thousands of children and young people.
If you believe this, get to know our projects and find out how you can help transform lives.
