By Israel Adamu, Jos
The Star Education and Leadership Initiative (SELI) has commissioned a Community Children’s Library in Kyan Rikkos community, Jos, aimed at expanding access to quality reading and learning resources for children and young people.The library, officially unveiled on Tuesday, is the first child-focused learning facility of its kind in the area. It was established to provide a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment that supports literacy development and positive youth engagement beyond the traditional classroom setting. Designed to serve more than 500 children, the SELI Community Children’s Library caters to children and young adults between the ages of 3 and 17 years.
Access to the library and its educational resources is free for children within the community.According to SELI, the initiative seeks to promote early literacy, nurture a sustained culture of reading, and improve academic performance among children in underserved communities. The organisation noted that the library would also contribute to reducing learning gaps and encouraging constructive use of children’s time.The project was funded through the Reciprocal Exchange component of the Mandela Washington Fellowship, a programme of the United States Department of State, administered by IREX.
SELI acknowledged the support as critical to bringing the project to fruition.The commissioning ceremony was performed by Pastor Nathaniel Ekpekor, who praised SELI for investing in the educational development of children at the grassroots level. He urged parents and community members to take ownership of the facility and ensure it is properly used and protected.“ This library is an investment in the future of this community. When children have access to books and a supportive learning environment, they are better equipped to succeed in life,” Ekpekor said.
Speaking at the event, Aunty Esther Onyinyechi Mark, Founder and Executive Director of SELI, explained that the library was established in response to observed learning gaps and limited access to reading materials among children in the area.She said the facility was intentionally designed to be child-friendly and inclusive, providing a space where children can develop reading habits, critical thinking skills, and positive values.“Our goal is to encourage intentional reading and create a space where children can learn, grow, and discover their potential,” Mark said. “Education should not be limited to the classroom, and this library helps extend learning opportunities into the community.”
Mark also outlined SELI’s planned activities for the library, which include reading clubs, guided learning sessions, educational games, and community-driven programmes aimed at sustaining children’s interest in learning over time.She called on parents, guardians, and community leaders to actively support the initiative by encouraging regular use of the library and helping to safeguard its resources.“
The success of this library depends on collective responsibility. With community support, we can raise children who love learning and are better prepared for the future,” she added.The SELI Community Children’s Library forms part of the organisation’s broader mission to promote education, leadership development, and child-centred learning in underserved communities across Nigeria.The commissioning event was attended by parents, community leaders, children, and other well-wishers, reflecting strong community acceptance and a shared commitment to sustaining the project.
