Oxford University press EA calls for unity through books

The concept of a global community can be achieved through building the ideals of tolerance during a child’s formative years. One of the best ways of doing this is through the influence of books.

Speaking during the official opening of the Nairobi International Book Fair, 2017, Oxford University Press East Africa’s General Manager, Mr. John Mwazemba noted that the greatest responsibility of forging unity rests upon homes, churches, schools and libraries since these are institutions that shape the culture of people.

“Only through building the ideals of tolerance during a child’s formative years can we ensure that these future citizens are ready for the task ahead. This, therefore, is a crucial time for us. If we plan to do this five, ten or twenty years from now, that will be too late,” reiterated Mr Mwazemba.

Themed ‘Unity through Books’, The Nairobi International Book Fair (NIBF) played host to writers, authors, script writers, owners of publishing houses, publishers, and teachers and students from Kenya and the region.

“As a nation, we have pledged the highest form of brotherhood and good fellowship with all people. We need to make this pledge a reality, and what better way to do it than through books,’’ said Mr Mwazemba.

During the five-day event, Oxford University Press East Africa unveiled a series of books in line with the curriculum needs. These books are expected to propel the country to a middle level, knowledge driven economy.

As a 21^stcentury publisher, OUPEA is aware of the fact that critical thinking will shape the future of innovation; hence, its determination to continue providing learners with the necessary skills through its books.

‘’The books we publish are not just learning tools but they seek to address the challenges facing our society today.  We therefore critically think of the impact our books have on the learners and hope that it will equip them with the values and skills that are much needed Kenya,” added Mr Mwazemba.