Reviving Readership on Campus in the Age of Internet Through Extra-Curricular Activities

Due to the proliferation of ubiquitous internet and smart gadgets, the culture of book reading has been on the decline; lack of this important quality is clearly reflected in the social awareness, creativity, and critical thinking skills of university students. This paper examines the impact of gadgets, online education, and entertainment on academic and recreational book reading. This article presents a brief account of extra-curricular intervention aimed at promoting voluntary readership among university students. Qualitative data was collected through pre and post intervention surveys and via observation. A preliminary survey provided profound insight into the leisure reading habits of the students and extent of reliance on digital gadgets and online resources as a primary source for gathering information. The efficacy of proposed intervention was evaluated through the program mentor and exit survey feedback. According to the survey results the proposed intervention achieved fruitful results; According to authors there is no quick fix to this problem; coherent and consorted efforts are needed to impede the adverse effects of digital technology on university students.