By: Mpho Shelile
Maseru – His Majesty King Letsie III, alongside Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) through its social investment arm, Higherlife Foundation Lesotho, awards scholarship certificates to 10 exceptional Basotho scholars. These scholars represent the 3rd cohort of the prestigious Moshoeshoe I Scholarship, a program dedicated to fostering academic achievement and leadership potential among Lesotho’s youth.
The ceremony honours 10 distinguished scholars, selected based on their outstanding academic records and leadership qualities. The Moshoeshoe I Scholarship, named in honour of the founding monarch of the Basotho nation, King Moshoeshoe I, is designed to uphold his legacy of wisdom, vision, and a deep commitment to education. The program specifically focuses on empowering students in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), seen as critical drivers of Lesotho’s socio-economic development.
The scholars will pursue their studies at prestigious local and international institutions, where they will specialize in STEM disciplines. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, and other necessary expenses, offering recipients the opportunity to study at top-tier institutions and equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to the country’s growth.
During the certificate awarding ceremony, His Majesty King Letsie III congratulates the scholars for their remarkable achievements and dedication. He underscores the transformative power of education, highlighting its ability to change lives, uplift communities, and drive national development. In his address, he stresses the importance of embracing the opportunities presented through this scholarship.
“Education remains the most powerful tool we can use to transform not only individual lives but entire communities. The scholars selected today carry the hopes of our nation, and we expect them to excel and become catalysts for change in Lesotho.”
King Letsie III also took the opportunity to thank the founders of Higherlife Foundation, Strive Masiyiwa and his wife Tsitsi Masiyiwa, for their enduring support of Basotho youth through education. He commends their unwavering commitment to ensuring that Lesotho’s future leaders receive the necessary support to excel on the global stage.
The Minister of Education and Training, Hon. Ntoi Rapapa, echoes His Majesty’s sentiments. In his remarks, Hon. Rapapa expresses his gratitude to ETL and the Higherlife Foundation for their dedication to education in Lesotho, particularly in STEM fields, which are crucial for the country’s technological and industrial advancement.
“STEM is not just an academic discipline, it is the foundation upon which we can build a more developed and competitive Lesotho,” says Hon. Rapapa. “The scholars must understand the weight of this opportunity. We encourage them to be diligent in their studies and remain connected to Lesotho’s embassies abroad for support and assistance in their academic journeys.”
He advises the scholars to reach out to Lesotho’s diplomatic missions in their respective countries of study, ensuring they have the necessary support systems in place while abroad.
ETL CEO, Mr. Dennis Plaatjies, expresses immense pride in the achievements of the 10 scholars, describing the moment as a testament to ETL’s commitment to developing the nation’s human capital. In his address, Mr. Plaatjies emphasizes that the Moshoeshoe I Scholarship is part of ETL’s broader mission to invest in the youth and drive economic growth through education and innovation.
“Our vision at ETL goes beyond providing telecommunications services, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders. The Moshoeshoe I Scholarship is an investment in the future of Lesotho.”
Mr. Plaatjies also stresses the importance of not only excelling academically but also of becoming role models for their peers and communities. He urges the scholars to take full advantage of this opportunity and carry with them the responsibility of uplifting Lesotho through their future achievements.
“You have earned this opportunity through your hard work and dedication. As you embark on this journey, remember that you are the face of Lesotho’s bright future. Use this scholarship wisely, continue to excel, and together we can build a more resilient, innovative, and prosperous Lesotho.”
Speaking on behalf of the scholarship recipients, Puleng Mohlomi expresses heartfelt gratitude for the life-changing opportunity. Mohlomi acknowledges the scholarship as a responsibility to continue the legacy of King Moshoeshoe I by using their education to drive positive change in Lesotho.
“This scholarship is not just an award, it is a responsibility that we carry on behalf of the Basotho nation. We are determined to use our education to uplift our communities and contribute to the socio-economic development of Lesotho.”
Mohlomi’s words reflects the sense of duty shared among the scholars, who see their educational journey as a platform to contribute to the development of the nation.
Mrs. Mankheli Mafeta, speaking on behalf of the parents, praised ETL and Higherlife Foundation for their ongoing support. She encourages the scholars to remain humble and never forget the foundation upon which their success is built.
“There are many students who would love to be in your position today. Always remember to thank God, work hard, and stay focused on your goals. Never forget to pray and give thanks for the opportunities you have been granted.”
As the 3rd cohort of the Moshoeshoe I Scholarship recipients embarks on their educational journeys, the program continues to play a pivotal role in shaping Lesotho’s future leaders. By investing in young talent, ETL and the Higherlife Foundation are contributing to Lesotho’s vision of achieving higher levels of human capital development, reducing poverty, and promoting inclusive growth through education.
The collaboration between His Majesty King Letsie III, ETL, and Higherlife Foundation highlights a shared commitment to empowering the youth of Lesotho. As these scholars embark on their journeys, they carry the hopes and dreams of the nation, ready to take on the mantle of leadership and drive Lesotho toward a brighter future.