Princess Senate Mohato Seeiso Launches School Donation Drive Under ‘SHOESHOE EA MOSHOESHOE Foundation’

Princess Senate Mohato Seeiso has called on all citizens, particularly the youth, to actively support the school donation drive organized by the ‘SHOESHOE EA MOSHOESHOE Foundation.’ The launch took place at Pioneer Mall on Friday, aiming to collect as many school items as possible to assist needy learners across Lesotho. The Princess emphasized that the foundation’s values reflect those of Morena Moshoeshoe I, the nation’s founder, whose leadership was defined by wisdom, forgiveness, and efforts to promote unity and peace. She noted that as the nation moves beyond its bicentennial celebrations in 2024, it is critical for young people to demonstrate leadership and social responsibility. The drive seeks not only to provide school supplies but also to inspire the youth to engage in initiatives that benefit communities in need.

During the launch, Princess Senate Mohato Seeiso outlined the importance of collective action and the role of the youth in driving change. She explained that supporting marginalized learners strengthens the social fabric of the nation and ensures equal opportunities in education. The drive focuses on providing essential school items, including stationery and sanitary towels, recognizing that lack of these resources often hinders learners, particularly young girls, from continuing their studies. UNFPA Representative John Kennedy Mosoti expressed full support for the initiative, highlighting that when the Princess leads with her vision, organizations like UNFPA are committed to being active partners in achieving shared goals. He emphasized that the programme goes beyond material donations by supplying relevant information and addressing specific needs that contribute to learners’ overall well-being and academic success.

The launch received wide support from various stakeholders, demonstrating cross-sector collaboration in promoting education and youth empowerment. Vodacom Foundation, represented by Pinkie Mokoena, applauded Princess Senate for the initiative and pledged to support marginalized learners, ensuring they complete their studies and access opportunities for personal and professional development. On behalf of Pioneer Mall, Mr. Ntlatlapa Mosae highlighted that the Princess’s presence strengthens national morale and motivates learners to attend school regularly. He encouraged tenants and shoppers to contribute to the drive by placing school items in designated collection boxes throughout the mall, noting that Pioneer Mall is the first in Lesotho to facilitate such a large-scale community partnership. The event underscored the collective responsibility of individuals, organizations, and communities in supporting education.

The climax of the launch featured pledges and donations from multiple stakeholders, reflecting strong community engagement. Pioneer Mall contributed a cheque of M20,000.00, while the Chinese Embassy pledged M30,000.00, and Alliance presented M5,000.00. Additional contributions included stationery and sanitary towels to support learners’ educational needs. The Princess’s school drive follows a similar initiative she launched earlier this week at Maseru Mall, demonstrating the foundation’s commitment to expanding its reach. Plans are underway for the official launch of the ‘SHOESHOE EA MOSHOESHOE Foundation,’ which is expected to further consolidate efforts to support underprivileged learners and promote youth leadership across Lesotho.

The school donation drive led by Princess Senate Mohato Seeiso reflects a strong commitment to education, equality, and community empowerment. By addressing the specific needs of marginalized learners, the foundation aims to remove barriers that prevent young people from accessing quality education. The collaboration between government representatives, private organizations, and community stakeholders sets a precedent for collective action and social responsibility. The initiative also encourages youth to take an active role in nation-building and social development. With continued support, the ‘SHOESHOE EA MOSHOESHOE Foundation’ is positioned to make a lasting impact on the educational landscape of Lesotho, ensuring that every learner has the resources and opportunities to succeed.