UNION Minister for Information U Maung Maung Ohn, accompanied by Sagaing Region Chief Minister U Myat Kyaw, attended a ceremony to launch the “Developing Libraries and Raising Reading Habits” campaign at No 1 BEHS in Sagaing yesterday.

Speaking at the event, the Union minister, who is also Chairman of the Myanmar Libraries Development Cooperation Committee, said the Prime Minister focuses on library development and increase in reading frequency across the country. Students should cultivate reading habits for their improvement. Moreover, they should also study modern technologies.

The ministry also carries out the proper activities to raise public awareness regarding reading in addition to its library operations, which is its primary duty.

He then urged the students to read all varieties of books and publications and to become reliable citizens of the country. Afterwards, he handed over K75 million to construct five new libraries and 16,500 books and publications to the region’s chief minister, DTH dishes and eight DVB T2-set top boxes for eight basic high schools to regional education officer U Thet Lay Oo.

The region chief minister expressed gratitude and presented books and publications to the No 1 BEHS headmistress.

After the entertainment programmes of famous singers, comedians and students, the Union minister gave cash prizes to performers and observed the displayed books, journals, departmental booths, photo exhibition, story-telling competition, essay competition, painting, quizzes, impromptu talks and fun game competitions.

The Union minister and party then visited SunU Ponnyashin Pagoda atop Sagaing Hill and discussed the matter of donating gold foils to the pagoda. The gold foils were donated to the pagoda nine years ago, and the Sagaing Region government arranged to donate again and also open the Shwe Taung Yoe Motel for the convenience of pilgrims.

 MNA/KTZH

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