…uplifts learners in Mohale’s Hoek
Moroke Sekoboto
TELECOMMUNICATIONS powerhouse, Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL), in partnership with the Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation (MICSTI) and other corporate stakeholders, has reaffirmed its commitment to education and digital inclusion by supporting the Ministry of Education and Training’s annual Back-2-School campaign.
The initiative, marked on Monday, seeks to mobilise various sectors of society to support learners, particularly the most vulnerable, by easing the burden of returning to school while inspiring a culture of academic excellence.
As part of this year’s campaign, Econet staff joined the delegation, led by Minister of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation, Nthati Moorosi, and Minister of Law and Justice Richard Ramoeletsi, which visited Holy Cross High School in Mohale’s Hoek, one of six beneficiary schools identified for the 2026 programme. The schools are Holy Cross High School, Mekaling High School, Holy Cross Primary School, Seaka Primary School, Phatlalla Primary School and Mohlakana Primary School.
During the visit, learners received school uniforms, school bags and essential stationery. Sanitary towels were also donated to support dignity and uninterrupted learning for girl learners.
The event further celebrated academic excellence, with six top performers from the recently released LGCSE examination results—drawn from Mekaling High School and Holy Cross High School—receiving trophies and Econet Prime 4G smartphones in recognition of their outstanding achievements.
Speaking on the initiative, Econet Telecom Lesotho Chief Executive Officer Dennis Plaatjies said the company’s participation was driven by its firm belief that access to basic learning tools can change the trajectory of a child’s life.
“Education is the foundation upon which communities and nations are built. As Econet, we understand that something as simple as a school bag, stationery or access to a smartphone can remove barriers to learning and open doors of opportunity,” Mr Plaatjies said.
“By supporting this initiative, we are investing in the future of Lesotho and encouraging learners to dream bigger, work harder and believe that their efforts will be rewarded.”
He added that recognising top performers was equally important, as it sends a powerful message that dedication and commitment to education do not go unnoticed.
On her part, Ms Moorosi emphasised the importance of collective action in supporting the Back-2-School initiative, noting that vulnerable learners require sustained support from both government and the private sector.
“This initiative demonstrates what is possible when government and corporate partners rally behind a common cause,” Ms Moorosi said.
“By extending a helping hand to vulnerable learners, we are not only easing their immediate challenges but also instilling in them a sense of responsibility, confidence and commitment to succeed in their educational journeys.”
A major highlight of the day was the official launch of a fully equipped computer laboratory at Holy Cross High School, comprising 20 computers. Econet Telecom Lesotho played a central role in enabling connectivity at the facility, further strengthening access to digital tools and online learning resources.
Launching the laboratory, Ms Moorosi underscored the importance of responsible and efficient use of the facility by learners, teachers and the surrounding community.
“This computer lab is a valuable asset, not only for Holy Cross High School but for neighbouring communities as well,” she said.
“I urge learners and teachers to use these resources effectively and responsibly, as they are part of our commitment to leave no one behind and to equip Basotho with the skills required in a modern, technology-driven world.”
