Ntsoaki Motaung
The Ministry of Education has expressed concern that many secondary and high school learners benefiting from government education grants seem indifferent to their educational duties.
Since the government covers the cost, these students and their families do not value the opportunity to stay in school.
Leribe District Education Inspector, Setenane Phakoana reported that many students who receive funding often show little interest in their studies, perform poorly, and ultimately drop out.
“While the government’s initiative to keep these children in school is commendable, it is disheartening to see some individuals fail to appreciate this effort. Some parents even indirectly discourage their children from pursuing their education,” Phakoana said.
He emphasised that parents must motivate their children to attend school.
Phakoana’s comments emerged during a media tour in Leribe District, where the Ministry of Gender, Youth, and Social Development (MGYSD) reviewed the administration of grants under the Basic Education Strengthening Program (BESP).
Funded by the World Bank and led by the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET), BESP aims to ensure that all children under 18 stay in school, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 4, which focuses on universal access to quality education.
As part of the program, students in grades 8 and 9 who already receive government grants through the Child Grants Programme (GCP) are given a one-time uniform supplement of M1500 to encourage them to remain in school. The second phase of this initiative also extends uniform support to learners receiving government aid for school fees.
Phakoana urged parents, especially those from impoverished backgrounds, to embrace the government’s efforts as an opportunity to improve their children’s future through education.
Principal ‘Maletsatsi Marumo of Rantuba High School echoed these concerns. She noted that, among the 55 students at her school who receive government assistance, only a few are genuinely committed to their education.
“Many recipients of government grants seem indifferent to their schooling, as if they do not care because the funding does not come from their own families,” Marumo told this publication during the ministry’s recent visit to her school.
Marumo acknowledged the government’s efforts to make education accessible to all children, regardless of their family background, and expressed gratitude to the ministry for their support.
The uniform funds are part of BESP’s first component, which also includes forming and expanding youth and Math and Science clubs. The project, set to conclude in 2025, initially targeted around 9,000 learners but may be extended.
