Seithati Motšoeneng
THE Petroleum Fund has donated 79 school jerseys and pairs of shoes to Lioli High School in Leribe district, a school known for its dedication to nurturing students from disadvantaged families.
The fund also donated a borehole to the Pitseng Old Age Home to address long-standing water scarcity at the home.
According to the Petroleum Fund, gifting students with desperately needed uniforms is meant to boost students’ morale and support their education by providing them with basic necessities.
Petroleum Fund’s interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Advocate Makananelo Kome, emphasised the importance of investing in education in her address at the handover ceremony.
“We believe that every child deserves access to quality education and essentials to succeed. Our donation is a small step towards empowering the youth of Lesotho,” she said.
Advocate Kome said, as a government entity, the Fund had a responsibility to contribute to national initiatives that promote dignity and well-being for all citizens.
She paid tribute to the Fund’s customers who she said were key contributors to making such community support possible.
Lioli High School Principal, Ramonki Seisa, expressed appreciation for the donation.
“This is a celebration of hope, compassion and the resilience of our community,” Mr Seisa said.
While the gifts of jerseys and shoes may seem small, they carry a powerful message from Petroleum Fund Lesotho, he added, further encouraging students to accept the gifts with gratitude.
In addition, the Petroleum Fund also handed over a new borehole to Pitseng Old Age Home, addressing a serious water crisis the elderly residents had been grappling with for a long time.
The borehole will improve sanitation and overall living standards at the facility.
Sister Emaculate Pooka of the Sisters of Charity of Ottawa Lesotho who manages the Old Age Home, expressed deep appreciation for the donation.
“Access to clean water is incredibly important for us. It will greatly improve our health and comfort,” she said, praising the Petroleum Fund for making a real difference in the lives of the elderly and for strengthening community ties.
As Lesotho continues to struggle with economic and infrastructure challenges, initiatives like these highlight the crucial role of corporate social responsibility in creating positive change.
Adv Kome said the donations by Petroleum Fund are expected to have a lasting impact on both the students and senior citizens, underscoring the value of community support.
