Lesotho Embassy in China Urges Students to Prioritize Education During 59th Independence Day Celebration

On Saturday, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Lesotho in China hosted Basotho students in Beijing to celebrate the 59th Independence Day and bid farewell to outgoing Ambassador Mr. Kenneth Sentle Rabale and First Secretary Mrs. Mamorapeli Lesoetsa. The event also welcomed the new Counsellor, Mr. Thabang Rapapa.

Ambassador Rabale encouraged students to focus on their studies as the primary reason for being in China. He emphasized that students are already leaders representing different regions of Lesotho while coordinating the diaspora. He added that studying abroad is an opportunity to transform both their lives and the development of Lesotho.

Rabale cautioned students against distractions such as skipping classes or engaging in nightlife activities, warning that such behavior affects academic performance and tarnishes the country’s image. He urged students to become pioneers of change in their fields of study and instill responsibility among peers. Rabale highlighted the importance of avoiding drugs, noting that they are strictly prohibited in China and other Asian countries.

The ambassador also stressed aligning studies with national development priorities, citing engineering as a key area to support industrialization, sustainable development, job creation, and economic growth.

Echoing Rabale’s message, First Secretary Mrs. Lesoetsa urged new students to maintain strong ties to their background and avoid negative influences. She emphasized that misconduct not only affects individual reputations but also damages Lesotho’s image abroad. She welcomed Counsellor Rapapa and his family, highlighting his role in supporting the Basotho community in China.

Incoming Counsellor Mr. Rapapa acknowledged the warm welcome and expressed his commitment to collaborate with students and the diaspora to ensure their well-being and success.

Embassy staff, including First Secretary (Media) Ms. Likhathatso Rathebe, expressed sadness at the departure of diplomats but assured continued guidance and support to students. She highlighted the diplomats’ dedication to transforming lives and nurturing leadership among Basotho abroad.

Student representatives also shared their perspectives. Beijing diaspora representative Mr. Theko Tlebere commended the embassy for providing consistent support and called for an increase in the number of Basotho students studying in China. Wuhan representative Mr. Ely Leburu stressed that Independence Day celebrations abroad strengthen unity and provide a platform to share ideas and address challenges while promoting the Sesotho language and culture.

As part of the farewell, Ambassador Rabale and Mrs. Lesoetsa received gifts in recognition of their dedication and service. The event reinforced the importance of education, responsibility, and cultural unity for Basotho students studying abroad.