Book O’Clock, a literary nonprofit based in Sokoto, Nigeria, dedicated to promoting literacy and African literature — in collaboration with the Erasmus Mundus International Master’s in Children’s Literature, Media, and Cultural Entrepreneurship (CLMCE), is set to host a groundbreaking webinar panel discussion on African children’s literature.
The webinar, themed “The Child in African Literature”, will take place on Friday, 7 November 2025 (4–6 PM GMT, via Zoom). It will spotlight the unique role of children in African storytelling traditions, the challenges facing children’s publishing on the continent, and the innovative interventions reshaping its future.
Uchenna Emelife, Director of Book O’Clock, postgraduate scholar of children’s literature, and panel moderator says::
“African children’s literature is often dismissed as simplistic or unworthy of critical attention. This is ironic given that African literature is deeply rooted in oral storytelling traditions, many of which were, and remain, stories for children. So, if we must talk about African literature (as we should), the place to begin is with the child, to whom our stories have long been directed.”
The panel will feature leading voices from across Africa and the diaspora who are actively reshaping the field:
● Thembalethu Shangase (South Africa): Executive Director, Book Dash
● Namse Peter Udosen (Nigeria): Children’s Author, Scholar, and Educator
● Louisa Kiwana Olafuyi (Uganda/UK): Co-founder, Kunda Kids
● Farida Ladipo-Ajayi (Nigeria): Bookseller and Founder, The Bookworm Café
● Dr Elodie Malanda (Congo/Netherlands): Assistant Professor of Children’s Literature, Tilburg University
Together, these thought leaders will examine how African children’s literature contributes to global book markets while disrupting, enriching, and complicating dominant narratives in children’s literature scholarship.
This event is free and open to the public. Pre-registration is required. Register here.
A youth-led literary organisation based in Sokoto, Nigeria, dedicated to nurturing a culture of reading, storytelling, and creative engagement among children and young people. Book O’Clock Literary Foundation (Book O’Clock) was established in 2020 and formally registered in 2023, Book O’Clock operates at the intersection of education, culture, and social change—creating inclusive literary experiences that reflect local realities while connecting with global conversations. Notable projects include the Sokoto Book and Arts Festival, Book O’Clock Prize and Literature and Film.
Register now!
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
