Higherlife Foundation touches Basotho’s hearts

. . . as charity sends pair to US varsities

SEBONGILE MATHE

MASERU — At a heart-warming ceremony held in Maseru this week, Econet Telecom Lesotho and Higherlife Foundation Lesotho proudly bid farewell to two promising young students who have earned the chance to further their studies in prestigious institutions in the United States.

The scholars, Katleho Mokhele and Matlala Sefale, have been accepted into Earlham College in Indiana and St. Lawrence University in New York, respectively. Mokhele will pursue a major in psychology and social studies, with a minor in education, while Sefale will pursue studies in data and computer science.

Both students have demonstrated exceptional academic prowess, earning themselves scholarships that will equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute meaningfully to the development of Lesotho.

Their achievements are a testament to the enduring commitment of Higherlife Foundation Lesotho to empower the youth of Lesotho through education, mentorship, and leadership development. Econet Telecom Lesotho’s CEO, Dennis Plaatjies, underlined the significance of education as a cornerstone for national progress.

“At Econet, we believe education is the key to unlocking the potential of our youth and driving sustainable development in our country. Through the support of Higherlife Foundation Lesotho, we are proud to play a role in shaping the future leaders of Lesotho,” he said.

Since 2011, Econet Telecom Lesotho, in collaboration with Higherlife Foundation, has been at the forefront of educational initiatives, providing scholarships, mentorship, and life skills training to thousands of students across Lesotho.

Plaatjies highlighted that over 1,616 Basotho students have benefited from Higherlife Foundation’s Capernaum scholarships, while 20 have been awarded the prestigious Moshoeshoe I scholarships. In total, more than M100 million has been committed to various educational interventions in Lesotho.

The Minister of Education and Training, Professor Ntoi Rapapa, expressed deep gratitude to Econet Telecom Lesotho for their unwavering support and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to backing educational initiatives that empower the youth and contribute to national growth. “These scholarships represent a significant step in our collective efforts to uplift the education sector in Lesotho and provide our youth with the tools they need to contribute to the country’s development agenda,” he said.

In a heartfelt moment, Sefale, who has been a Higherlife Foundation beneficiary since her high school years at Soofia International School, expressed her deep gratitude. “I have been home for four years with little hope of continuing my education. This scholarship is a testament to the belief that when the time is right, the Lord will make it happen,” Sefale said.

Mokhele also shared her journey, recalling how Higherlife Foundation has supported her since 2017. “Every step I have taken in my academic journey is thanks to the unwavering support of Higherlife Foundation,” Mokhele said with a sense of fulfilment.

The event concluded with heartfelt words from ’Mabokang Mokhele, Katleho’s mother, who expressed profound appreciation to Econet Telecom Lesotho and Higherlife Foundation for their role in her daughter’s success. “I never imagined my daughter would be where she is today, and for that, I am eternally grateful,” she said, her voice filled with emotion.