Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) and its philanthropic arm, HigherLife Foundation Lesotho have stepped in with a M1.24 million lifeline to rescue 439 Grade 11 learners from the brink of educational exclusion.
The learners, spread across 167 schools in all ten districts, faced the real possibility of missing their final year examinations due to unpaid fees. Their situation became dire when support from the USAID-funded Mothers2Mothers programme came to an end.
Answering an urgent appeal from the Ministry of Education and Training, ETL handed over the full amount needed to the Examinations Council of Lesotho (ECoL), ensuring the students’ uninterrupted access to their 2025 examinations.
During a recent handover ceremony in Maseru, ETL’s CEO Dennis Plaatjies described the gesture as more than just financial aid.
“This payment is a declaration of belief in the potential of every learner. It is a commitment to access, equity, and dignity in education. At Econet, we believe that no child should be left behind,” Plaatjies said.
The beneficiaries, many from economically vulnerable households, had previously relied on external donor assistance to stay in school. With looming exams and no other financial backing in sight, their academic futures were at serious risk.
HigherLife Foundation’s intervention forms part of its broader mission to support educational access for underprivileged Basotho children. Since its inception, the Foundation has made notable investments in scholarships, high school tuition, and tertiary education support.
Last year alone, ETL and HigherLife invested over M8 million in education-focused Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives.
Their sustained efforts also contributed significantly to unlocking a M43.9 million Global Partnership for Education (GPE) Multiplier Grant aimed at strengthening education systems and improving learning outcomes in Lesotho.
“We see ourselves not as the source, but as the bridge. And that bridge is made possible by our customers every recharge, every subscription, every EcoCash transaction helps us show up where it matters most,” Plaatjies added.
On his part, the Minister of Education and Training Professor Ntoi Rapapa lauded the intervention, calling it a “critical turning point” for learners who were on the brink of dropping out.
“This support comes at a time when many families are facing immense economic challenges,” he said. Without it, these learners would have missed their final Grade 11 exams, effectively derailing their educational paths.”
Professor Rapapa praised HigherLife Foundation for responding swiftly to his public appeal earlier this year, noting that this is not the first time the organisation has stood shoulder to shoulder with the Ministry.
“You have consistently supported our efforts, reaching even the most remote corners of our country. Your contributions help make our education system more inclusive and equitable. This is an investment in the nation’s future,” the Minister said.
Setlaba Phalatsi from the Ministry of Social Development, Youth, and Gender echoed the sentiments, describing the donation as a beacon of hope.
“This is more than just a cheque. It is a commitment to our youth and to a better future for Lesotho,” he said.
HigherLife Foundation also announced that it would soon unveil 10 new recipients of the Moshoeshoe I Scholarship, bringing the total number of scholars under the programme to 40 since its launch in 2022.
Summary
- Answering an urgent appeal from the Ministry of Education and Training, ETL handed over the full amount needed to the Examinations Council of Lesotho (ECoL), ensuring the students’ uninterrupted access to their 2025 examinations.
- On his part, the Minister of Education and Training Professor Ntoi Rapapa lauded the intervention, calling it a “critical turning point” for learners who were on the brink of dropping out.
- HigherLife Foundation also announced that it would soon unveil 10 new recipients of the Moshoeshoe I Scholarship, bringing the total number of scholars under the programme to 40 since its launch in 2022.
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.
