Rebuilding an education system in crisis, one book donation at a time 

It is no secret that South Africa faces a severe and deepening literacy divide. According to the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study and the 2030 Reading Panel, about 80% of the country’s foundation phase pupils struggle to read for meaning in any language. This alarming statistic highlights a need for urgent intervention and access to impactful educational tools that support early childhood development. 

Four years ago, Daily Maverick’s head of growth, Fran Beighton, and Gift of the Givers, joined forces to launch MavericKids – a collaborative literacy project that seeks to make a real, measurable difference by delivering educational books directly to schools in need.

What started as a small distribution to six schools in the Western Cape has expanded into a nationwide effort, reaching rural communities in the Eastern Cape (Tholeni, Butterworth) and Northern Cape (Keimoes, Upington, Calvinia), inspiring children who previously struggled to engage with literacy material.

This year, 1,401 copies of MavericKids Activity Book Volume 4: Smart, Curious and Independent were donated as the result of books purchased by Daily Maverick readers, according to Gift of the Givers’ administrator, Anele Ncetani. 

MavericKids books are a much-needed resource to help learners improve their general knowledge and promote a better learning experience. (Photo: Ingrid Sinclair)

A partnership making a real difference

“The MavericKids partnership embodies the spirit of collaboration and social responsibility,” says Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers. “Together, we’ve made a tangible impact on South Africa’s literacy landscape and improved the lives of thousands of students. We look forward to continued growth and innovation.” 

MavericKids compiles the best educational content from DM168’s MavericKids section into a comprehensive 240-page activity book. The book covers a wide range of topics, from artificial intelligence and career exploration to biology, geography and practical life skills, presented in accessible English. It is designed to be both educational and engaging, often serving as a valuable teaching resource.

The collaboration stipulates that for every book sold, Daily Maverick donates an additional copy to Gift of the Givers for distribution, along with stationery packs to equip teachers and learners with the tools needed for success.

Measuring success 

This year’s book drop received overwhelmingly positive feedback, says Dr Sooliman. Teachers reportedly praised the quality and relevance of the books, noting that topics such as Planet Earth, how things work and the human body captivated students. “Children enjoy the colourful illustrations and interactive activities,” he says, adding that the team received reports of increased student engagement and improved literacy skills. 

Ms Z. Malek, a teacher at Chapel Street Primary School, one of the recipients of the drop says, "Thank you - Dr. Sooliman, Gift of the Givers and Daily Maverick for this amazing gesture of educational support towards our learners, an experience that our staff and learners will treasure forever, especially meeting Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, we are truly honoured by your humbleness".

One teacher in rural Eastern Cape shared that previously disinterested readers now eagerly await each book drop, showing notable vocabulary growth. Similarly, Northern Cape learners, many of whom are Afrikaans speakers, found the English content easy to read and enjoyable, helping to bridge language barriers, says Dr Sooliman. 

This year’s book drop was notably successful, with MavericKids books distributed to seven schools in the Kraaifontein and Scotsville areas. (Photo: Gift of the Givers / Instagram)

A network of change 

MavericKids is more than just a book distribution project. It is part of a growing ecosystem that empowers teachers, inspires learners and fosters a culture of reading and curiosity. Many of today’s learners are gaining confidence and knowledge that will enable them to mentor peers and younger students in the future, creating a ripple effect of literacy and empowerment across communities.

With the fifth edition of MavericKids scheduled for release later this year, Daily Maverick and Gift of the Givers remain committed to expanding this impactful initiative. By focusing on early childhood education and resource accessibility, they hope to shift attitudes and improve literacy outcomes across South Africa.

About Gift of the Givers

The Gift of the Givers Foundation is Africa’s largest disaster response non-governmental organisation of African origin. It has a strong track record of supporting education in South Africa, including providing school shoes, uniforms and technology to underprivileged and rural schools. Its interventions have reached communities such as Khayelitsha, Wellington and Esikawini, earning positive feedback from principals and local leaders. DM