Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso on Wednesday presented 200 sanitary pads and 45 school bags to girls and boys respectively at Menkhoaneng and Lentsoaneng Primary Schools in Leribe.
Speaking at the event initiated by the Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC), Her Majesty thanked the LTDC for engaging and trusting her to choose the schools.
She said the event also marks the celebration of 200 years this year since the Basotho nation was founded.
“This is an indication that we love you and care for you hence we are helping you to develop for the future,” she stated.
In conclusion, Her Majesty urged the pupils to work hard in their studies and respect their parents, saying they will therefore achieve the best in life.
Furthermore, Her Majesty commended Chieftainess ‘Masempe Selebalo who played a major role in ensuring implementation of development at Menkhoaneng.
Speaking at the same event, the District Education Manager Leribe, Mrs. ‘Malara Khantši said the sanitary pads contribute positively to girls’ hygiene.
Mrs. Khantši said it was a shame in the past when girls skipped school due to their menstrual period.
She said the Ministry of Education and Training is working hard in engaging Life Skills Basic Education into the syllabus to help boys understand it is their responsibility to care and help girls during menstruation.
Also speaking, LTDC Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Molupe Pheko said in celebration of the 200 years of Basotho existence, his organisation decided to give back to the Menkhoaneng community through Her Majesty’s office.
Mr. Pheko said they decided to give out sanitary pads as they are aware that girls struggle during their menstrual periods and end up failing to attend classes.
Referring to boys, he said Her Majesty advised them to also give out to the boys as mostly they are not considered.
“This is the reason we opted to give them school bags because it is often what they need” he noted.
He again expressed gratitude to the media fraternity for the good work of disseminating tourism news in the country and globally.
Mr. Pheko said they appreciate the role Her Majesty takes in participating in Moshoeshoe’s Walk as it motivates them to keep going.
Network of Early Childhood Development of Lesotho (NECDOL) also donated teaching aids to reception and Grade 1 classes. The teaching aids comprised charts, blocks and books.
Source: LENA 06/03/2024
