Seithati Motšoeneng
VODACOM Lesotho has reinforced its commitment to digital inclusion and youth empowerment with the official handover of a fully equipped computer lab to ’Matheko Vocational School in Thaba-Tseka.
The initiative—implemented in collaboration with the American Corner in Maseru and the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development—represents a strategic investment in equipping young Basotho with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected global economy.
The facility comprises 20 high-performance desktop computers, high-speed internet connectivity and a comprehensive suite of educational software.
It also features NonVisual Desktop Access (NVDA) software to support learners with visual impairments, while two workstations are adapted for wheelchair access, ensuring that the lab benefits all community members without exclusion.
Speaking at the unveiling over the weekend, Vodacom Lesotho’s Public Relations Manager, Lebohang Chefa, said the initiative aligns with the company’s broader digital transformation agenda.
“This lab is our tangible contribution to the country’s digital transformation agenda and a living expression of our purpose, connecting for a better future,” Mr Chefa said.
“There can be no better future without technology and digital skills. This nation will only flourish if it develops a skilled workforce equipped with capabilities that are in demand in the modern digital economy.
“To the beneficiaries, the youth of this district, I urge you to cherish and protect this facility. It is a golden opportunity. And as Vodacom, we are fully committed to sustained investment in this country and can only achieve that through continued support of our ever-loyal customers.”
The Deputy Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development, Thae Makhele, commended Vodacom for the initiative and urged the youth to make full use of the new facility.
“We thank Vodacom for this generous donation. To the young people here, please embrace this lab as a tool for growth. Protect it, maintain it, and use it to acquire the knowledge and skills that will open doors to scholarships, job opportunities, and collaboration with organisations locally and globally. You are at the height of your potential—leverage this moment,” Mr Makhele said.
Vodacom Lesotho’s Senior Specialist for Corporate Social Investment, Pinki Manong, explained that the lab is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all members of the community.
“Beyond its state-of-the-art equipment and two-year internet provision, this lab integrates accessibility tools for visually impaired youth, reaffirming our commitment to ensuring no one is left behind in the digital age,” Ms Manong said.
“It is also part of a broader portfolio of initiatives, from our Digital Skills Hub to STEM scholarship programmes, all intended to prepare our youth to excel in technology-driven careers.”
Adding a note of collaboration, Keneuoe Mphutlane from the American Corner said: “We are proud to support this exemplary initiative and to contribute by facilitating a series of skills-based workshops in this facility, as well as sharing opportunities available in the United States”.
Youth representatives expressed both gratitude and anticipation for the facility’s potential impact.
Speaking on behalf of the in-school youth, David Mafoea, said: “Previously, our opportunities were limited, but this facility will transform our academic performance and spark new ambitions in technology-related careers”.
Meanwhile, Thuseho Humane, representing local youth groups, said: “This lab will expand our horizons, enabling us to access global information and learn about pressing issues, including climate change—a subject on which awareness remains low in our communities”.
Vodacom also indicated that the investment formed part of the company’s sustained drive to extend digital opportunities nationwide. It builds on its similar contributions at Linotšing High School, St Paul School for the Deaf, Mt Royal Primary and High Schools, and New Millennium English Medium School.
“The initiative also aligns closely with Vodacom’s Digital Skills Hub, a free, certified online learning platform available to youth aged 18–35. Courses can be accessed via the Vodacom Lesotho website (www.vodacom.co.ls) once users have activated a complimentary daily data bundle by dialling *321#, selecting option 6, then option 1,” Vodacom said in a statement.
