More Kids Reading: CAMO Hosts 2025 Reading Contest

In the underserved community of Potrerillos, Corquín, Copán, where material shortages are evident, something even more valuable stands out: the desire to grow and improve through education.

This community hosted the fourth edition of the Annual Speed and Comprehension Reading Contest in the municipality of Corquín. Participation increased this year: while 50 students competed last year, this year 73 children and schools took part, reflecting that more and more children are improving their reading skills.

Over 70 students from Schools and Kinder levels participated in the contest, which measures how many words children can read in a minute, as well as their comprehension level. This year, students from 37 Schools and 13 Kinders in Corquín competed.

Among the participants, Angie Sofía Murillo Valeriano, a third-grade student and winner in the comprehension reading category, shared her excitement:

“I have already read about 50 books. It makes me feel a deep joy.”

A speed and comprehension reading contest represents much more than a school activity for children from communities affected by poverty. It is a gateway to new opportunities. Through reading, these children discover worlds different from their own, expand their imagination, and strengthen their hope for a better future. This experience enhances their academic skills and self-esteem, sparks their curiosity, and shows that knowledge can truly transform their lives and the lives of their families.

Winners

Speed Reading – Kinder Level

1. Linda Esmeralda Solís García
2. Aminta Isabel Lemus Pinto
3. Alejandra Mejía Escalante

Speed Reading – Schools Level

1. Alex Fernando Vásquez Cruz
2. Mariela Liseth Membreño
3. Andrea Elizabeth Menéndez
4. Damaris Sarahí Contreras
5. Amy Lucía Estévez Mejía

Comprehension Reading – Kinder Level

1. Alba Sofía Pacheco Mejía
2. Aminta Isabel Lemus Pinto
3. Greisy Montserrat Villeda

Comprehension Reading – Schools Level

1. Angie Sofía Murillo Valeriano
2. Dulce María Estévez Rodas
3. Óscar José López
4. Sofía Elizabeth Amador
5. Luis Rodolfo Murcia

Through its Literacy Program, CAMO, with the support of donors, assists 16 educational centers in Honduras, providing textbooks and reading materials and helping to establish libraries in these schools.