School of Education Student Named to ILA 2025 Class of 30 Under 30 Literacy Leaders
Published: 20 January 2025
School of Education student Uchenna Maximus Emelife has been named to the International Literacy Association’s 2025 Class of 30 Under 30 Literacy Leaders for his work promoting African arts and literature through his nonprofit organisation, Book O’Clock.
The School of Education is proud to celebrate Uchenna Maximus Emelife, from the Erasmus Mundus International Master in Children’s Literature, Media & Cultural Entrepreneurship program, for being named to the International Literacy Association’s (ILA) 2025 Class of 30 Under 30 Literacy Leaders. This prestigious accolade highlights young visionaries driving transformative literacy initiatives worldwide.
Uchenna is the founder of Book O’Clock, a nonprofit literary organisation based in Sokoto, Nigeria. Established in 2020, Book O’Clock promotes literacy in northern Nigeria and uses arts and literature as tools for social advocacy. The organisation focuses on promoting reading culture through arts and literary clubs, showcasing and celebrating African arts and creators, and addressing contemporary social issues through cultural events and projects. Its initiatives, including book drives, writing contests, and an annual literary festival (Sokoto Book and Arts Festival (SOBAFest)), and a bookstore (Book O'Clock Store), engage young readers and foster a deeper appreciation for literature.
Find out more about Book O'Clock here.
The International Literacy Association, established nearly 70 years ago, is a global professional organisation dedicated to advancing literacy education across 128 countries. ILA connects educators, researchers, and advocates to improve literacy teaching and learning worldwide. Through programs like the 30 Under 30 initiative, ILA spotlights individuals like Uchenna, who are tackling critical literacy challenges and championing equitable access to education.
We caught up with Uchenna in the video below, where we discussed the award, he shared the inspiring story behind Book O'Clock, discussed the organisation's mission to promote literacy in Nigeria, and how it evolved into a platform for arts, literature, and social advocacy:
ILA 30 Under 30 Award: Uchenna Maximus Emelife
First published: 20 January 2025
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