"Glazen Radiohuis" is all about reading and writing

Alderman Paul de Bruijn will visit the Glazen Radiohuis in Zoetermeer on Wednesday, September 6. Together with Alderman Ronald Zoutendijk from Wassenaar, he will speak with DJ Joey about efforts to address low literacy in Voorschoten and Wassenaar. Residents of Voorschoten can listen to the radio broadcast live on Feel Good Radio via Ziggo channel 43, www.glazenradiohuis.nl, , or over the air on DAB+ channels 5C and 11B.

In Voorschoten, 7 percent of residents struggle with basic skills such as reading, writing, arithmetic, and navigating the internet. As a result, they face all kinds of challenges. During the national Week of Reading and Writing (September 8–15), the Glazen Radiohuis in our region is therefore calling for extra attention to be paid to addressing low literacy.

Councilmember de Bruijn: “When people struggle with basic skills like reading and writing, all kinds of daily activities become very difficult, such as reading books and letters (aloud), making payments, or scheduling an appointment online. This can also lead to other problems, such as health issues, poverty, or difficulties finding or keeping a job or a place to live. That’s why it’s so important to recognize and address the impact of low literacy.”

Radio broadcasts

The Glass Radio House is an initiative of the Cineac The Hague Foundation in collaboration with the Reading and Writing Foundation. Those interested can visit the Radio House from September 6 through 9 on Dorpsstraat in Zoetermeer. On Wednesday, September 6, the entire afternoon will be dedicated to the municipalities of Voorschoten and Wassenaar. Passersby can see and hear what’s happening inside from outside. Broadcasts can also be followed on the radio or local TV. Visit www.glazenradiohuis.nl or for the correct frequencies.

Language Courses in Voorschoten

Residents of Voorschoten who want to learn to read, write, do math, or use a computer can stop by the Taalhuis at the Public Library, Wijngaardenlaan 4, Voorschoten. There, they’ll receive advice on what best suits their needs. Visit https://www.obvw.nl/leren/nederlands-leren.html or for more information. Councilmember de Bruijn: “With this approach, we’re all working together to ensure that everyone in Voorschoten can develop and make the most of their talents, and participate in society as fully as possible.”

Regional Approach

In the fight against low literacy, the municipalities of Lansingerland, Leidschendam-Voorburg, Pijnacker-Nootdorp, Voorschoten, Wassenaar, and Zoetermeer are joining forces. This past spring, they signed the Low Literacy/WEB 2023–2024 cooperation agreement. The agreement outlines, among other things, how the municipalities will divide responsibilities, how they will consult and make decisions, and what financial resources they will allocate. Regional thematic meetings will also be organized to share knowledge and experience on identifying low literacy. These meetings are intended for counselors, as well as volunteers. In addition, the municipalities have agreed on how they will organize educational programs.