…as Higher Life Foundation continues aids 439 children
Moroke Sekoboto
TELECOMMUNICATIONS powerhouse, Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL), through its social arm HigherLife Foundation Lesotho, has paid examination fees for 439 vulnerable Grade 11 learners.
These students were facing the prospect of missing their final exams due to unpaid fees before Econet changed the odds and threw a M1,248,840 lifeline so these students will be able to sit for their crucial exams.
Responding to an urgent call from the Ministry of Education and Training, HigherLife Foundation channelled the funds directly to the Examinations Council of Lesotho (ECoL) to settle the learners’ exam fees in full.
These students were initially supported by Mothers2Mothers through funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Speaking during the handover of the cheque to the Ministry of Education and Training yesterday, Econet’s Chief Executive Officer, Dennis Plaatjies, said the payment to ECoL demonstrates the company’s belief in the potential of each learner and its commitment to access, equity, and dignity in education.
“This is more than a cheque; it is a bridge of hope. At Econet Telecom Lesotho, we see ourselves not as the source, but as the bridge. And that bridge is made possible by our customers – households and businesses from every corner of this beautiful country. Through every airtime recharge, every monthly subscription, and every EcoCash transaction, you empower us to show up where it matters most. Because of you, we can bridge the gap between hardship and hope,” Mr Plaatjies said.
He also highlighted the organisation’s ongoing investment in education, saying in the past financial year alone, Econet and HigherLife Foundation Lesotho contributed M8,190,192.98 towards educational initiatives.
These include the prestigious Moshoeshoe I Scholarship, which will soon welcome 10 new recipients, increasing the total number of scholars to 40 since its launch in 2022.
“Education remains one of the most powerful tools to transform lives and nations. As our founder, Strive Masiyiwa, always says, ‘Every child has greatness in them. Sometimes, all they need is a little push, a little hope, a little help.’ We are honoured to stand with the Ministry and all partners to keep Basotho children in school.”
He also said joint interventions have also been instrumental in unlocking a US$2.5 million (more than M40 million) GPE Multiplier Grant in 2024. This grant is aimed at strengthening education systems and improving learning outcomes across Lesotho – a remarkable testament to the power of strategic partnerships and local investment.
For his part, the Minister of Education and Training, Professor Ntoi Rapapa, commended the contribution, noting it comes at a critical moment for learners and their families. Prof Rapapa said the support demonstrates that, when people are united, challenges can be overcome, and he expressed gratitude to Econet Telecom Lesotho, HigherLife Foundation, and their customers for investing in the future of the nation.
“We stand boldly to appreciate a partnership rooted in compassion, vision, and shared commitment to the transformative power of education. The HigherLife Foundation has once again demonstrated its unwavering dedication to uplifting communities and investing in the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and change-makers,” Prof Rapapa said.
He also said HigherLife Foundation responded to the Ministry’s call to assist in paying the examination fees for 439 learners across the country for the 2025 academic year. This follows his appeal for all stakeholders and sectors to support the Ministry in ensuring that all children return to school.
The Minister said HigherLife Foundation had not only removed a significant financial barrier but had also sent a powerful message that every child, regardless of circumstances, deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
Prof Rapapa said the support comes at a time when many families face economic challenges and, for countless learners, it represents the difference between dropping out and continuing their education.
“It means hope, dignity, and a future. Without this support, learners would have failed to sit for their 2025 final examinations, which would have been a loss to their secondary school year.
“This is not the first time HigherLife Foundation has stood beside us. Your consistent support over the years has been a pillar of strength for our education system. You have helped us reach learners in remote areas, supported vulnerable children, and contributed to a more inclusive and equitable education landscape. Your investment in our learners is an investment in the future of Lesotho. You are not just funding education, but nurturing dreams, unlocking potential, and building a lasting legacy of empowerment.”
