Nagico staff members display some of the books they contributed to the Book Drive for Smart Mart Tutorial Academy & Kiddy’s Nook as part of Reading is Fun Week 2018. Photo: Provided

Staff and pupils of Smart Mart Tutorial Academy & Kiddy’s Nook check out their new collection of storybooks, compliments of staff of Nagico Insurances BVI. Photo: Provided

As part of Reading is Fun Week, observed from October 7-13, 2018 under the theme ‘Reading is the best remedy’, Public Relations Officer of Nagico Insurances, Mr Reuben Stoby, had taken up an offer as a parent to read to the students of the school located in Lower Estate, Tortola.

“It was amazing to see how the children were eager to be read to and were actively involved in a discussion on the book ‘Harry the Dirty Dog’. But we also saw a need, a need for more books to keep the children excited about reading and we wanted to try to fulfil that need at this time.

Stoby said with the blessings of Managing Director Mr Shan Mohamed staff of Nagico Insurances jumped on the idea of a book drive for the school.

“Staff members were encouraged to donate storybooks they had at home but were no longer using; however, many chose to buy brand new books. That was particularly special as it showed the staff genuinely cared about helping to promote literacy in the Territory,” Mr Stoby said.

Among the more than 25 books donated were ready to read starring Katy Duck, Scaredy Squirrel, Olivia and the Babies, Treasury for Children, Aesop’s Fables, Mad at Mommy, Learning about Nature, Tremendous Tractors and the Chalk Doll.

The gesture was deeply appreciated by Principal of Smart Mart Tutorial Academy & Kiddy’s Nook, Mrs Jereyn Callwood.

“First of all, we have to say thanks to Nagico for remembering us when it comes to distributing books to the community... we love the books... They are colourful and of course, you can see that the children are enjoying them.”

Mrs Callwood also said the school had a successful Reading is Fun Week programme and we're thrilled that Nagico Insurances was actively part of it.

Smart Mart Tutorial Academy & Kiddy’s Nook, which focuses on Early Childhood Education, opened its doors in Lower Estate in September 2018. It also has a branch in Carrot Bay.