Lesotho: ETL Grants U.S. Opportunities to Scholars

Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL), a leading telecommunications company in Lesotho, has made a significant investment in education by sending two outstanding Basotho scholars, Matlala Sefale and Katleho Mokhele, to the United States for advanced studies. This initiative is supported by the HigherLife Foundation Lesotho, which operates as the social arm of Econet and is dedicated to improving educational opportunities for young Basotho.

Matlala Sefale will be studying psychology and social services, with a minor in education, at Ainel College, while Katleho Mokhele will delve into environmental and data science at St. Lawrence University. Sefale is set to embark on her journey next month, whereas Mokhele has already begun her academic pursuits in the U.S., having traveled there on Tuesday.

Both scholars have been beneficiaries of the HigherLife program since their high school years. This program previously enrolled them in a two-year International Baccalaureate (IB) program in Eswatini, where they further honed their skills and deepened their academic commitment. Sefale graduated from the IB program in 2020, and Mokhele completed her studies in 2023.

The scholars’ departure was celebrated with a farewell ceremony at Lancer's Inn in Maseru. During this event, Dennis Plaatjies, the CEO of Econet, offered words of encouragement and inspiration to the scholars. He highlighted the substantial financial commitment Econet has made to educational initiatives, amounting to over M43 million specifically for education and a total expenditure exceeding M100 million over the years. This investment underscores Econet's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for young Basotho and emphasizes the company’s role in fostering educational development in the country.

The ceremony highlighted the inspirational impact of Sefale and Mokhele’s achievements, showcasing the transformative power of the HigherLife program. The program’s benefits extend beyond mere statistics, providing life-changing experiences that contribute to both academic and personal growth. Mokhele, for instance, reflected on the holistic approach of the program, noting that receiving her first Bible from HigherLife played a pivotal role in her spiritual journey.

Minister of Education Ntoi Rapapa lauded Econet Telecom Lesotho for its significant and transformative contributions to the field of education through the HigherLife Foundation. He highlighted the crucial role of such initiatives in enhancing educational opportunities and the broader impact they have on society. Minister Rapapa specifically praised the Foundation’s focus on supporting young women, noting that providing girls with equal access to education is not just a matter of individual advancement but also a powerful driver of societal progress.

He elaborated on the positive ripple effects of empowering young women, asserting that when girls are given the same educational opportunities as their male counterparts, the benefits extend far beyond the individual. This empowerment fosters greater societal development and contributes to a more equitable and prosperous community. Minister Rapapa’s remarks underscored the importance of such educational investments in shaping the future of Lesotho.

In his address to the scholars, Matlala Sefale and Katleho Mokhele, Minister Rapapa urged them to embrace their roles as representatives of their nation. He encouraged them to carry forward the pride and expectations of Lesotho, emphasizing the importance of confidence and excellence in their endeavors. By excelling in their studies and upholding the values they have been taught, Sefale and Mokhele are set to become powerful ambassadors for their country, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of the HigherLife Foundation’s support and the potential for such initiatives to inspire and effect meaningful change.

Since its establishment in 2011, the HigherLife Foundation Lesotho has been committed to investing in human capital, aiming to build thriving individuals and communities. The Foundation’s focus areas include Education Support, Leadership and Lifelong Development, Institutional Support for Children’s Homes, and Additional Opportunities for HigherLife Fellows. Through these initiatives, the Foundation strives to create sustainable livelihoods and positive impacts for Basotho youth, reinforcing its mission to foster educational and personal growth.