Abstracts are invited for the 20th Annual LITASA conference which will take place in Durban, KwaZulu Natal from 10 - 12 October 2025.

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Literacy is not a single voice but a chorus of voices sharing experiences, perspectives, and practices. Across South Africa, literacy takes place in homes, schools, universities and colleges, research institutions, NGOs, libraries, workplaces, and community spaces. It is heard in the voices of children discovering the joy of reading, in the knowledge shared by elders, in the stories passed down through generations, and in the innovations of educators and researchers. It includes those who are literate and those who are still finding their way into literacy.​

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The Amazwi Ethu – Our Voices conference invites submissions that explore diverse voices in literacy: the ways in which literacy is taught, learned, and practiced in formal and informal settings, and how different literacy traditions and innovations intersect. How do we ensure that every voice is heard? How do we make sure that access to literacy enables participation in society? How do we bridge the gaps between different literacy spaces, from classrooms to communities, from research to practice? We seek contributions that highlight the role of educational institutions, researchers, families, book clubs, libraries, publishers, and community organisations in shaping the literacy landscape.​

 

This conference aims to bring together, amongst others, educators, researchers, policymakers, storytellers, and community members to share insights, research, and best practices in literacy development. We welcome discussions on multilingual literacy, intergenerational learning, digital and print literacy, and inclusive approaches that recognise the richness of South Africa’s linguistic and cultural diversity.

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Subthemes to be considered:

• Multiple voices in literacy – families, communities, and intergenerational learning

• Building formal and informal literacy spaces

• Oral traditions and storytelling

• Multilingual literacy spaces

• Technology and literacy access

• Decolonising literacy

• Publishing for literacy development

• Children as literacy participants and creators

• Literacy for social change

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Presentations can take the form of:

• Individual papers and snapshots of practice (20 minutes & 10 minutes for discussion)

• Colloquia/Panel Discussions (1 hour, 3-5 speakers)

• Practical Workshops (1 hour)

• Snapshots (20 minutes and 10 minutes for discussion)

• Poster presentation On display throughout the conference

• Voice-over PowerPoint Presentation - to be screened at the conference and included in the programme (15-20 minutes)