‘Makananelo Manamolela
FIRST National Bank (FNB) Lesotho has reaffirmed its commitment to improving access to basic educational resources, particularly for children in underserved and remote communities.
Its enduring commitment was evident this week when learners from six Mafeteng primary schools received school shoes as part of the bank’s ongoing initiative. The event was held at Mekekeng Primary School in Tajane, Mafeteng.
FNB Lesotho marketing manager, Lerato Mohale, said the programme had expanded significantly since its launch in 2023.
“This year, we will distribute more than 1,000 pairs of school shoes to learners across all districts of the country,” Mohale said.
“Since its inception, the initiative has grown in both scale and impact. In Mafeteng, 300 pairs are being distributed, while other districts will each receive 100 pairs.”
Mohale said the initiative forms part of the bank’s corporate social investment programme, which focuses on early childhood development and empowering young learners.
FNB Chief Executive Officer, Delekazi Mokebe, underscored the importance of investing in children as the foundation of national development.
“At FNB, we believe that a child who feels confident and dignified is better able to learn, grow and ultimately contribute to the nation’s future,” Ms Mokebe said.
“Something as simple as a pair of school shoes can make the difference between a child attending class with pride or staying at home. Our commitment goes beyond donations; we are investing in the future of Basotho children.”
Ms Mokebe added that the initiative reflects the bank’s values of community partnership and long-term nation-building.
“This programme reflects who we are as a bank — a partner that walks alongside communities, listens to their needs, and acts in ways that truly make a difference. We are honoured to respond to the Ministry of Education and Training’s call and support families across all districts.”
Sharing a personal story, Ms Mokebe told learners she once faced similar challenges, including lacking proper school shoes, but persevered to become a bank CEO.
“If I can stand here today as a CEO, then it is possible for each one of you to achieve your dreams,” she told the learners.
She also expressed appreciation to teachers for their dedication, noting her own mother had been a primary school teacher.
Mafeteng branch manager, Tšepang Majoro-Kao, said the initiative symbolises more than just a donation.
“We are proud to give back to the community. Investing in education is investing in the future. When communities are strengthened, the country develops,” she said.
Ms Majoro-Kao encouraged learners to remain focused on their aspirations and use education as a tool to shape their future.
Speaking on behalf of beneficiary schools, Mekekeng Primary School principal, Mphasa Tšola, expressed gratitude for the donation.
“When learners have the necessary resources, it becomes easier for teachers to perform their duties effectively,” he said.
He urged learners to make the most of the opportunity and remain committed to their education.
Ministry of Education and Training Deputy Principal Secretary, Refiloe Kepa, commended FNB for responding positively to the ministry’s call.
“Our policy ensures that every child eligible for education is in school at the right time and age,” Ms Kepa said.
“We are not educating you for the sake of it, but to develop this country. We want to see Lesotho transform from better to best through you.”
She added that quality education requires adequate resources and incentives, such as school shoes, to enable learners to study comfortably.
The schools that benefited from the donation include Khotla, Tajane, Emmaus, Metlabeng, Keki and Mekekeng primary schools.
The nationwide distribution campaign is set to begin on 23 March 2026, with FNB staff and district partners travelling across all 10 districts to deliver school shoes directly to identified schools.
