Ithabeleng Qhasho
MINISTER of Education and Training, Professor Ntoi Rapapa, has called on all Basotho to rally behind the 2026 Back-to-School campaign.
Speaking at a press briefing in Maseru yesterday, Prof Rapapa stressed that education must be a shared responsibility if Lesotho is to achieve meaningful progress in academic outcomes.
Launched in 2023, the Back-to-School initiative encourages citizens to participate annually on the last Monday of January by supporting learners and schools in various ways. Contributions can include donating uniforms and stationery, paying school fees for vulnerable students, or the public and private sector showing solidarity by wearing school uniforms themselves.
“This campaign is about more than just giving — it’s about creating a national culture that values and prioritises education,” Prof Rapapa said.
He highlighted that the 2025 edition of the campaign had received unprecedented support from both the public and private sectors. As part of preparations for last year’s drive, the ministry organised several fundraising initiatives, including the Prime Minister’s annual Golf Tournament, which attracted widespread national participation from individuals, businesses, and government officials.
“We were humbled by the contributions from the Prime Minister’s Golf Tournament, cabinet ministers, the business community, members of parliament, and others.”
He said the tournament raised M1.1 million, which went towards supporting 438 learners from vulnerable and disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly those with visual and physical impairments. The funds were used to provide essential education support such as school uniforms, shoes, school bags, payment of school fees, computers, and classroom construction and renovations.
Prof Rapapa emphasised that early childhood education and secondary schooling must be strengthened through partnerships and community involvement. He urged citizens, institutions, and leaders to ensure learners have the resources they need to succeed.
The minister announced that the 2026 Back-to-School campaign will take place on 26 January 2026, and encouraged Basotho to wear school uniforms on the day to visibly show support for learners.
“It is expected that on the designated day, patriotic Basotho will visit schools to contribute in various ways — from offering career guidance and donating uniforms and shoes, to paying school fees for needy learners. Others may assist by renovating classrooms, particularly those damaged by disasters,” he said.
Prof Rapapa also revealed that in the coming year, the ministry will prioritise psychosocial support for both teachers and learners to address challenges in the learning environment.
He also underscored the significant improvement in the performance of Grade 7 learners in 2025, attributing much of the progress to the motivation inspired by the back-to-school initiative. The minister reaffirmed his commitment to engaging stakeholders to ensure no child is left behind due to a lack of resources.
