First National Bank Lesotho (FNB Lesotho), in partnership with Vodacom Lesotho Foundation, UNICEF Lesotho and the Ministry of Education and Training Lesotho, has launched the ‘Ha U Felle Mona’ Programme in Quthing.
The initiative is designed to support learners who did not achieve their desired examination results, with a strong focus on rebuilding academic confidence and resilience.
It represents a coordinated response to the growing concern that poor performance in national examinations continues to limit opportunities for many Basotho learners, particularly in rural communities.
Unveiled this week, the programme targets both the financial and emotional barriers that often prevent learners from continuing with their education after disappointing results. At its core is a commitment to ensure that failure is not treated as a final outcome, but rather as a stepping stone toward future success.
Delivering remarks at the launch, FNB Lesotho Chief Executive Officer Delekazi Mokebe shared a deeply personal account of her own academic struggles, using her journey to inspire affected learners.
“I know the pain of examination setbacks only too well. I did not pass my Form 5 as I had hoped and had to sit for supplementary exams. At that moment, it felt as though my dreams were slipping away,” Mokebe said.
“Yet today I stand before you as a Chief Executive Officer to say: your results are not your future.”
Her testimony set the tone for a programme anchored not only in material support, but also in mentorship and encouragement.
A key component of the initiative is the sponsorship of supplementary examination fees for 50 learners who are expected to sit for the November 2026 session. This intervention directly addresses one of the most significant barriers facing struggling students, as many are unable to afford the cost of rewriting examinations and are consequently forced to abandon their studies.
By removing this financial hurdle, the programme ensures that deserving learners are given a second opportunity to improve their results and pursue further education.
Mokebe emphasised that the initiative aligns with broader national development priorities, particularly in expanding access to education and nurturing future talent.
“We are standing alongside learners who did not perform as expected and reminding them that one examination does not define their future,” she said.
She further noted that beneficiaries of the programme could later qualify for FNB’s scholarship opportunities, particularly in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, which are critical to Lesotho’s economic growth and innovation.
Beyond financial support, the programme also places strong emphasis on emotional well-being, recognising the psychological impact of academic setbacks.
Speaking on behalf of UNICEF Lesotho, Thato Mchone highlighted how poor results can affect a learner’s confidence and self-worth.
“Poor academic results can profoundly affect a child’s confidence and sense of self-worth. This initiative speaks directly to a child’s heart. It tells them they remain capable, valuable and full of potential,” Mchone said.
This holistic approach underscores the understanding that academic recovery requires more than just access to exams, it also demands a supportive environment that encourages learners to persevere despite setbacks.
Minister of Education and Training Ntoi Rapapa welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that complements government efforts to improve educational outcomes across the country.
“As the Ministry, we are committed to ensuring that every child has a fair opportunity to learn and succeed. This programme removes barriers preventing learners from returning to write supplementary exams and provides much-needed encouragement,” Rapapa said.
He further called on parents, educators and communities to play an active role in supporting learners who are given this second chance, stressing that collective responsibility is essential in helping them succeed.
The ‘Ha U Felle Mona’ Programme also incorporates mentorship and guidance elements, offering learners insights into alternative educational pathways and career options.
This ensures that even those who may not immediately achieve their desired results are equipped with the knowledge and support needed to navigate their academic journeys.
Summary
- First National Bank Lesotho (FNB Lesotho), in partnership with Vodacom Lesotho Foundation, UNICEF Lesotho and the Ministry of Education and Training Lesotho, has launched the ‘Ha U Felle Mona’ Programme in Quthing.
- A key component of the initiative is the sponsorship of supplementary examination fees for 50 learners who are expected to sit for the November 2026 session.
- Minister of Education and Training Ntoi Rapapa speaks at the launch of the ‘Ha U Felle Mona’ Programme, describing the initiative as a vital intervention to help learners rewrite supplementary examinations and continue their education.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
