Reading And Writing On the Decrease?

A local writers organization has said Sierra Leoneans are losing the culture of reading and writing.

Essie James, a senior member of the executive of Pen Sierra Leone, an organization of Sierra Leonean writers and professors, has said fewer people spend time with a book or a pen than ever before.

Speaking at a Pen workshop Monday, James said her group is trying to resuscitate and retain the culture of reading and writing among Sierra Leoneans. "We are worried that we are losing this culture gradually and Pen wants to rekindle it," she said, adding that Sierra Leoneans should be able to use the skills and talents God has blessed the country with.

She said Sierra Leonean writers have so much talent in their midst to bring social change and develop community groups.

James said her organization aims to revitalize the spirit of writing among school children by setting up Pen clubs at secondary schools.

She said the country has great writers, but it still needs to do more to foster the literary arts. "We are rich in writers but it is unfortunate that we are not seeing much of it," she said, adding that the aim of the workshop is to identify members in Pen Sierra Leone that will engage in different Pen committees.

Iranian Cultural Consul Mohamed Ghezel Sofla said intellectuals have a greater role to play for the development of Sierra Leone.

"Your writings should have messages that will enhance change," he said, noting that he has observed some developmental changes in the country over the years.

Aiah Senesie, a writer and participant, said the country has failed to succeed because its people have failed to plan for the future. "I believe if we work hard we will make it in the future," he said..

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