Limpho Sello
A FAMILY’S dream of decent accommodation finally came true in Manyareleng village, Mafeteng after Habitat for Humanity Lesotho (HFHL) and Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (LUCT) collaborated in building them a two-roomed dwelling.
Sixty-eight-year old Nuku Nthoba and her three grandchildren Liteboho Khofu (15), Itumeleng Khofu (12) and Motlatsi Khofu (8) were living in a dilapidated stone and mud house lent to them by a well-wisher before the two organisations came to their aid on Saturday.
Scores of LUCT students and staff from the Faculty of Architecture & the Built Environment as well as HFHL officials constructed the dwelling and a ventilated pit latrine.
According to HFHL Resource Development and Communications Officer, Setoko Hlabathe, the initiative was part of the non-profit organisation’s “Youth Build” programme which gives youngsters an opportunity to engage in volunteerism and raises awareness on the need for decent and affordable housing for vulnerable groups in society.
“The lives of both the Khofu family and Limkokwing students were changed for the better during the building process,” he said.
“Limkokwing students got a chance to put their theories into practice and gain volunteering experience. They were able to serve the community and meet professionals in their field of study and make a social impact through their skills.”
Mr Hlabathe said HFHL held various events to fight poverty and its various manifestations.
“Statistics indicate that 57.1 percent of Lesotho’s population lives below the poverty datum line,” he said.
“Our role as responsible Lesotho citizens is to play our part in whatever capacity and support the fight against all forms of poverty in the country.”
LUCT Assistant Faculty Manager of Faculty of Architecture & The Built Environment, David Mojewa, said they joined forces with HFHL to make a positive contribution to the community.
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“We decided to take time out from the lecture rooms and assist in a worthy cause. We believe that our contribution will change the lives of the Khofu family for the better,” he said.
“The initiative is also part of our corporate social responsibility drive of engaging the community at their point of need.”
Mr Mojewa said the experience had also benefited LUCT students as they were able to apply the training they had received.
“The event came with some benefits for our staff and students since they got a chance to serve the community, make a lasting social impact and put into practise what they have learnt,” he said.
