The Vodacom Lesotho Foundation recently donated 276 Wi-Fi devices to the Network of Early Child Development of Lesotho (NECDOL) in Maseru to promote quality education.
The donation is set to significantly boost internet connectivity in key reception educational schools across the country as Lesotho continues to adapt to the digital age, access to reliable internet connectivity has become crucial for educational purposes.
The NECDOL is responsible for coordinating the country’s early child development and has been at the forefront of fostering the education and development of reception pupils.
The Wi-Fi devices donated by the Vodacom Lesotho Foundation will play a pivotal role in enhancing access to online resources, e-learning, and research for pupils and educators in the country.
When handing over donations, the Chief Executive Officer of Vodacom Lesotho Foundation (VLF), Mr. Tšepo Ntaopane said they are happy to contribute to the development of Lesotho’s educational landscape by providing these Wi-Fi devices.
‘’In an increasingly digital world, connectivity is the bridge to knowledge and information. We hope these devices will empower pupils, educators, and officials across the education sector,’’ he said.
Mr. Ntaopane said Wi-Fi devices donated by the VLF are expected to be distributed strategically to reception schools which will ensure maximum impact as well as improved connectivity across the nation.
He said this serves as a reminder of the positive change that can be brought about when organisations and government agencies work hand in hand to address the evolving needs of quality education.
He added that it is anticipated that this donation will pave the way for a brighter and more digitally connected future for Lesotho’s education.
The Ministry of Education and Trading through the Department of Early Childhood Development, Mrs, Matšepo Ntšaba said the VCL donations reaffirm the private sector and government’s commitment to advancing educational technology and access to information.
Mrs. Ntšaba said the Ministry recognises that a well-connected educational infrastructure is essential for preparing Lesotho’s youth for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.
Receiving the donations, the CEO of NECDOL, Ms. Shoeshoe Mofokeng thanked the VCL for the donation, noting that these donation signifies a new era for the education system in the country.
Ms. Mofokeng said the Wi-Fi modems provided would make online learning more accessible to pupils across the country, adding that the educators will also have easy access to the development of pupils step by step.
She said access to the internet has become an essential component of modern education and these modems will enable NEDCOL to reach remote and underserved areas ensuring that no students are left behind.
The event was attended by officials from the Ministry of Education.
By Staff Reporter: Noliwe Velaphe
