Seabata Mahao
First National Bank (FNB) Lesotho through its Helping Hand Cares initiative is scheduled to distribute school shoes and socks to young learners in three schools per district from August and September this year.
The initiative, which began with a donation of 500 pairs of shoes and socks in 2022, forms part of the bank’s ongoing school shoes and socks donation, intended to support learners with the required school necessities.
It is in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, which assists with the identification of underprivileged schools across the country. The names of the beneficiary schools are yet to be announced.
Addressing a recent media briefing, FNB Lesotho’s Head of Marketing and Communications, ‘Masakoane Hanyane said as the bank of #thechangeables, they believe in making changes to the society because the smallest change can make the biggest difference.
“We strive to help our communities overcome their challenges by providing them with opportunities that will enable them to build a better future. Our extension of help to vulnerable learners highlights the bank’s ongoing support and commitment to drive and build solid educational foundations in our country,†she said.
Hanyane further indicated that education is a fundamental right for every Mosotho child, and is critical in lifting men and women out of poverty, abolishing inequalities, and ensuring sustainable development.
“It is an honour to take part in this initiative, which aims to benefit young learners. We want learners to go to school without any hindrances as we found out that some do not attend school as a result of not having any school shoes,†she said.
On her part, FNB Lesotho’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Delekazi Mokebe said their helping hand goes beyond banking as they seek to touch Basotho’s lives at the grassroots level through the initiative.
“Our dedication to uplifting communities and the betterment of our fellow Mosotho is a promise we stand by. It is for this very reason that we seek to change the lives of children through random acts of kindness. We hope to continue with this work for many years to come as we try to bring hope to every Mosotho child,†Mokebe stated.
The distribution of school shoes and socks will start from August to September.
On behalf of the Ministry of Education, Principal Secretary Dr John Oliphant commended FNB Lesotho for engaging and being the education champion.
He implored other corporates to join FNB Lesotho in similar corporate social responsibility activities to support the creation of future leaders for the country.
