On Saturday, October 4, 2025, the Honor Society, American University of Nigeria (AUNHS) visited the Karatu Library Foundation in Yola, a cozy learning space founded by Martha Speirs, a native of Boston, Massachusetts, and Mr. Efada Udoh, a resident of Yola, Adamawa State.
The visit reinforced the existing bond between AUN and the Karatu Library, underscoring the AUNHS's mission to embody AUN's core values of scholarship, service, character, and leadership. The outreach was part of the AUNHS Computer Service Initiative, spearheaded by Bilkisu Alkali, a senior majoring in Law and Vice President/Head of Community Service, AUNHS.
Ms. Bilkisu stated that the initiative emerged from the AUNHS's desire to create sustainable, low-cost community impact. "We wanted a project that could be easily replicated and sustained across semesters, one that educates while building relationships. Books don't just teach; they open worlds. Books define who we become, they shape how we see the world, and we want to share that gift with others," she added.
The day was filled with laughter, storytelling, and reflection. Members read aloud from vividly illustrated storybooks, guiding the children through each line and encouraging them to imagine, question, and respond. For many participating members, the visit was more than an act of volunteerism; it was a rediscovery of purpose.
"It was truly encouraging to see how well these children could read. Their curiosity and confidence reminded us of why AUN's motto- Excellence, Service, and Integrity- matters so deeply," shared Akachukwu Madueke, a senior majoring in Communications & Multimedia Designs and a member of AUNHS.
The project received generous support from Professor Paul Vita, Provost, American University of Nigeria, who contributed adult reading materials, and Dr. Abubakar Hussaini, Dean of the School of Engineering and Faculty Advisor of AUNHS, who provided a collection of books for the reading sessions.
The Karatu Library, with its leafy outdoor reading nook and warm atmosphere, continues to serve as a haven for both children and adults. As the sun dipped low and the volunteers prepared to leave, the sense of shared purpose was palpable. Through this initiative, the AUNHS continues to exemplify what it means to learn, lead, and serve – keeping alive the spirit of literacy, community, and compassion that defines the university's mission.
About the Karatu Library Foundation, Yola
Founded by Martha Speirs, a literacy advocate from Boston, Massachusetts, and Mr. Efada Udoh, the Karatu Library Foundation has become a vital literacy hub in Yola. It provides free access to books, reading programs, and community engagement initiatives that promote lifelong learning.
Click to find out more about the Karatu library
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Reported By Akachukwu Madueke