Learners at Matelile Primary School in Ha Seeiso, Mafeteng, have entered a brighter chapter following the official handover of five classrooms renovated by the Vodacom Lesotho Foundation.
The investment has transformed severely deteriorated learning spaces into safe, dignified and welcoming classrooms where children can learn with confidence and fulfil their potential.
The project addressed conditions that had placed a daily strain on teaching and learning. Learners had been attending lessons in classrooms with leaking roofs, cracked walls and damaged floors; conditions no child should have to endure. The renewed classrooms now offer light, warmth and security, giving young minds the space to concentrate, imagine and thrive.
Delivered through the Vodacom Lesotho Foundation’s Education Pillar, the project reflects the organisation’s commitment to education, inclusion and community empowerment.
It also brings Vodacom Lesotho’s purpose of connecting Basotho for a better future to life by extending the meaning of connection beyond technology to opportunity, dignity and the foundations of lifelong learning.
Speaking at the recent handover, the Minister of Education and Training, Prof Ntoi Rapapa, commended Vodacom Lesotho for its long-standing contribution to education and community development across the country.
“We sincerely thank Vodacom Lesotho for this contribution and its continued partnership in advancing education by expanding digital skills, connectivity and learning opportunities for young people,” Prof Rapapa said.
Reflecting on an earlier visit to the school, he added: “Before the refurbishment, I witnessed the difficult conditions faced by learners and teachers. This contribution provides a safer, more conducive environment for learning. The Ministry will build two additional classrooms and ablution facilities, complementing these efforts as we create better opportunities for our children and a brighter future for Lesotho.”
Dr Kelello Lerotholi, a member of the Vodacom Lesotho Foundation Board of Trustees, reflected on the Foundation’s contribution: “For 30 years, Vodacom Lesotho has served Basotho in ways that extend far beyond connectivity. We are grateful for the opportunity to support this school and will continue working with the Ministry of Education and Training to advance quality education for every Mosotho child,” Dr Lerotholi said. “I urge learners to value and care for these classrooms so that they may serve them and generations of learners to come.”
For teachers and learners, the impact of the project is already evident in their daily experiences. Matelile Primary School Principal Nondisano Mapise said, “Our learners were studying in a severely dilapidated building, with holes in the walls, cracked floors and a roof further damaged by strong winds. When the Minister visited, rain was pouring into the classrooms; a stark reminder that a complete renovation could not wait,” Mapise noted/
She added: “Today, our 351 pupils have a safer, more dignified learning environment. We are deeply grateful to Vodacom Lesotho, the Minister and everyone who helped turn an urgent need into renewed hope for our school.”
For families, the renewed classrooms offer reassurance that their children can learn in an environment that supports their wellbeing and potential.
Parent Mantefetseng Lebelihle said: “Vodacom Lesotho has not only renewed our classrooms; it has restored hope in our school. Poor conditions had forced some children to leave, but these safe and welcoming classrooms give us confidence that they will return,” she stated, adding: “They also give more families a reason to choose Matelile Primary School and believe in a brighter future for their children.”
