Growthpoint Properties, the largest JSE-listed property company in South Africa by market capitalisation and assets, is investing in an exciting Corporate Social Investment initiative aimed at raising awareness of the importance of literacy in local primary schools. The project has the support of the Western Cape Education Department and will take the form of a literacy quiz, called Growsmart, for learners in Grades 4 to 6.

Furthermore, as Growthpoint's property portfolio includes shopping centres, this project presents an opportunity to interact not just with schools and learners, but also with shopping centre communities.

Poor performance in literacy in our schools has become a major issue. The bottom line is that poor literacy has wide-ranging negative effects. It disempowers people. It influences quality of life, education, careers, future prospects and participation in society. In addition to schooling, performance in literacy is influenced by family, home environment, availability of books and libraries, and much more.

The Growsmart initiative aims to promote the importance of a skill that can positively impact the direction of a child's life, and to support those who teach that skill.