… BMDF pledges support for underprivileged learners
Kananelo Mokhele
Lesotho China Fellowship Collegiate (LCFC) held an awards ceremony on Friday recognising outstanding students in Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level and Advanced (A) Level.
Speaking at the event, Moroesi Takalimane explained that AS Level serves as a foundational stage for students progressing toward a full A-Level qualification.
“In AS Level, students typically select four subjects, which they study in depth during the first year. This approach allows them to build a strong academic base,” she said.
In the subsequent A-Level (A2) year, students narrow their focus to three subjects and delve deeper into advanced topics to prepare for university entrance.
Initially known as Lesotho-China Friendship Middle School, LCFC was built as a gift from the government of China to the government of Lesotho. The institution was launched in August 2017 with its first intake of students enrolling in a Bridging Programme.
It is a registered pre-tertiary institution located in the high-altitude foothills of the Berea Plateau in Thuathe Sehlabeng. As a Cambridge University Press and Assessment (CAPU) Centre, LCFC offers Advanced Subsidiary (AS) and Advanced (A) Level programs for post-LGCSE/IGCSE (or equivalent) students.
To ensure broader access to quality education, the institution also provides a customised Bridging Programme for students who do not meet direct AS entry requirements. Committed to academic excellence, LCFC nurtures high-caliber students, equipping them to compete both nationally and internationally.
With a strong international academic tradition, LCFC upholds English as the mandatory language of instruction and communication, both on and off campus. This fosters an inclusive environment for students from diverse backgrounds and nationalities, preparing them to thrive in a globalised world.
Speaking at the event as an alumnus, Tumo Tsanyane, President of the National University of Lesotho (NUL) Student Representative Council (SRC), shared how his experience at LCFC shaped his confidence and academic journey.
“Studying at LCFC taught me a lot and gave me immense confidence,” Tsanyane said. Tsanyane emphasised that the institution helped him understand that humility is not just about modesty but also about recognising one’s capabilities beyond the challenges of one’s background.
During the event, Bothata Mahlala, founder of the Bothata Mahlala Development Foundation (BMDF), announced an annual contribution of M50,000 to support the education of Basotho children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“We have noticed that the hard-earned taxes of the Basotho people are primarily funding the education of children from affluent families, those of cabinet ministers, principal secretaries, directors, parastatal CEOs, MPs, and senators, while children from impoverished backgrounds are left behind,” Mahlala stated.
In response, BMDF will provide financial assistance to underprivileged students who previously could not afford to enroll at LCFC. The M50,000 annual sponsorship will enable them to pursue AS and A Levels, ensuring greater access to quality education.
Top Achievers
Advanced Subsidiary Level
1. Tamanyane Thulo
2. Jacob West
2. Jiang Yufei
3. Lerato Mphatse
Advanced Level
1. Mohammaidzaid Topia
2. Thuso Mphunyane
2. Tsepo Rampoba
3. Retsepile Makoele
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