OCRC 2026 Grand Finale
Joycelyn Akosua Manu Duah, representing Oduom, has emerged winner of the 5th Edition of the Otumfuo Community Reading Challenge (OCRC), following an exciting grand finale at Manhyia Palace. The event celebrated the reading talents of five finalists and reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to promoting English and Asante Twi reading among JHS students across Asanteman.
The 5th Edition of the Otumfuo Community Reading Challenge (OCRC) has concluded with Joycelyn Akosua Manu Duah, a pupil of Weweso M/A Basic 'A' School representing Oduom, emerging as the overall champion of the 2026 competition.
The grand finale of the 5th Edition was held on Friday, October 2, 2026, at the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Jubilee Hall at Manhyia Palace in Kumasi. The event brought together five finalists who competed for the ultimate title after progressing through several stages of the competition.
The journey to the grand finale began with 60 community champions from across the Ashanti and Ahafo Regions. Through the various stages, the contestants demonstrated their reading ability, confidence and fluency in both English and Twi, reflecting the competitionâs commitment to nurturing literacy among young people.
The five finalists who made it to the grand finale were Oduom, Duayaw Nkwanta, Kumawu, Barekese and Twedie. Their performances highlighted the dedication of the pupils, the commitment of their schools and the support of teachers, families and communities throughout the competition.
In recognition of their efforts, all five finalists received prizes from the program sponsors, including tablets and cash awards. The prizes celebrated their achievements and encouraged them to continue pursuing excellence in reading and education.
The event was graced by Nana Prof. Oheneba Boachie-Adjei Woahene II, Otumfuo Hiahene; Baffour Owusu Amankwatia VI, Bantamahene; Mr. William Kwame Appiah Amankra, Ashanti Regional Director of Education; Esther Donkor, Atwima Nwabiagya North Municipal Director of Education; Daniel Kyei, Atwima Kwanwoma District Director of Education; and Dorothy Opare, Oforikrom Municipal Director of Education, alongside other dignitaries, education stakeholders, sponsors and partners.
The Otumfuo Community Reading Challenge is an initiative of the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation aimed at promoting English and Twi reading among Junior High School students. Through the competition, pupils are encouraged to develop confidence, improve their reading fluency and cultivate a lasting interest in reading.
The Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to the Ghana Education Service, the Official Partner; JP Trustees, the Headline Sponsor; Nananom; other sponsors; media partners; participating schools; teachers; parents; volunteers; and everyone whose support and contribution helped make OCRC 2026 a success.
Congratulations to Joycelyn Akosua Manu Duah and the Oduom community on this achievement. The success of this yearâs competition is a celebration not only of one champion, but of the young readers whose hard work and passion continue to advance the culture of reading across Asanteman.
OCRC 2026 â Promoting English and Asante Twi reading among JHS students.
