By: Mpho Shelile
Maseru – In a significant stride towards empowering Basotho youth through education, Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL), through its social investment arm, Higherlife Foundation Lesotho (HLFL), is celebrating the achievements of two exceptional young scholars. These students are granted the invaluable opportunity to pursue higher education in the United States, a milestone made possible through the unwavering support and commitment of Higherlife Foundation Lesotho.
The two scholars, distinguished by their academic excellence and dedication, are embarking on a transformative journey at renowned institutions of higher learning in the United States. This opportunity represents not only a personal triumph for these students but also stands as a testament to the power of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and opening doors to a brighter future.
Higherlife Foundation, established with the vision of supporting underprivileged youth through education, health, and community development initiatives, consistently champions the cause of education as a means to empower the next generation of leaders. This initiative to send two Basotho students to the USA is part of a broader mission to equip young Africans with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities and the continent at large.
ETL’s Chief Executive Officer, Dennis Plaatjies, commends the two Basotho students awarded scholarships to further their studies in the United States. He praises the scholars for their hard work, determination, and resilience, noting that their achievements reflect not only personal success but also the immense potential within the youth of Lesotho.
“Education is the most powerful tool we can use to change the world, and these young people are a shining example of the potential that lies within the youth of Lesotho,” he remarks.
Mr. Plaatjies further emphasizes the critical role that the Higherlife Foundation has played in Lesotho since its inception in 2011. The foundation’s primary objective is to uplift vulnerable children by providing them with opportunities to further their education. “We have positively impacted the lives of Basotho students for over a decade now,” Mr. Plaatjies notes, “focusing on our core pillars of educational support, leadership and livelihood development, institutional support, and additional opportunities.”
He elaborates on the broader mission of the Higherlife Foundation, which is to contribute to a thriving Africa where every individual discovers their God-given purpose and is empowered to uplift the communities and economies they serve.
Reflecting on the journey of the two honored students, he highlights that they have been beneficiaries of the foundation since high school. After excelling in their studies, they received the opportunity to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma at Waterford Kamhlaba UWC. Their continued dedication now earns them the chance to further their higher education in the USA, a move expected to open even more doors for their future.
In his address, Mr. Plaatjies also mentions the ongoing commitment of ETL through Higherlife Foundation to supporting the education of Basotho youth. He reveals that each year, ETL sets aside 2% of its revenue specifically for educational initiatives.
The scholarships provided are primarily aimed at vulnerable students who would not have had the opportunity to pursue further education without this support. Additionally, there is the prestigious Moshoeshoe I Scholarship, awarded to students who excel in their Lesotho General Certificate of Secondary Education (LGCSE) exams. This year, the foundation plans to award scholarships to 30 outstanding students under this program.
Mr. Plaatjies expresses pride in the students and encourages them to continue striving for excellence, not only for their personal growth but also for the betterment of Lesotho and Africa as a whole.
Hon. Ntoi Rapapa, the Minister of Education and Training, delivers an inspiring message during the send-off ceremony, extending his heartfelt congratulations to the two exceptional students selected to further their studies in the United States. He praises their hard work and determination, recognizing their achievement as a significant milestone in their academic journey.
Hon. Rapapa commends ETL and the Higherlife Foundation for their unwavering commitment to the education of Basotho youth. He highlights the pivotal role these organizations play in shaping the future of Lesotho by investing in the potential of young minds, emphasizing that such initiatives are crucial for the nation’s development.
Addressing the learners directly, hon. Rapapa offers words of wisdom, advising them to be mindful of how they allocate their time while abroad. “Remember,” he says, “the journey ahead requires discipline and focus. Limit the time you spend on sleeping and entertainment, for these are precious years that will define your future. I see in your future business leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs who will return to Lesotho and create opportunities, driving our nation forward by generating much-needed jobs for Basotho.”
His words underscore the importance of dedication and the transformative impact these young scholars could have on their country.
One of the recipients, Matlala Sefale, expresses immense gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “This scholarship is a dream come true. It’s more than just a chance to study abroad; it’s a chance to make a difference, to gain knowledge and skills that I can bring back to Lesotho to help build a better future for our people.” And acknowledged ETL for the support they have given them through their educational journey.
The second scholar, Katleho Mokhele, echoes these sentiments, adding, “I am deeply thankful to ETL and Higherlife Foundation for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I am committed to making the most of this chance and using it to inspire other young people in Lesotho to pursue their dreams.”
As these young scholars prepare to embark on their academic journey in the USA, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of a nation. Their success will undoubtedly inspire many other young Basotho, proving that with determination, hard work, and the right support, the sky is the limit.