Makananelo Manamolela
STANDARD Lesotho Bank (SLB), in partnership with the Rotary Club of Maloti, has launched a community outreach initiative by donating school shoes, socks and books to learners at Sefikaneng Primary School and ‘Mamathe Community High School in Berea.
The partnership handed over 100 pairs of school shoes and socks to each school, along with reading books, during an event held on Thursday.
Speaking at the handover, SLB’s sales and marketing representative, Mphotleng Sekoala, said the initiative forms part of the bank’s commitment to giving back to the community.
“In our strategic plans, we focus on health and welfare, which is where we give back to the communities we serve. Today is not just about shoes, but about dignity, opportunity and the future of our learners,” Ms Sekoala said.
She also said the bank was committed to investing in education as a foundation for growth.
“We believe Africa is our home and we drive its growth. That growth begins in classrooms, communities and in the lives of young people who carry the promise of tomorrow,” she said.
Ms Sekoala said the initiative began at Sefikaneng Primary and ‘Mamathe Community High School and will be extended to several other schools, including St Gerald Primary, St Thomas Primary, Matsatsaneng Primary, Mokhotlong Primary School and Seeiso High School.
In total, 700 pairs of school shoes and socks—sourced from a local manufacturer—will be distributed to learners.
She said the donation addresses a critical challenge faced by many children.
“For many learners, a pair of school shoes is more than just part of a uniform. It represents confidence, comfort and the ability to attend school with pride and focus on learning,” she said.
She added that the initiative aims to remove barriers to education and encourage learners to value their education and future.
Ms Sekoala also expressed gratitude to teachers and parents for their continued support in shaping young minds, as well as to the Rotary Club of Maloti for its collaboration.
“Partnerships like this remind us that working together can create a real and lasting impact,” she said.
She reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to education and community development, saying such initiatives form part of its broader mission to contribute meaningfully to society.
“To the students, may these shoes carry more than footsteps—may they carry your dreams, ambition and confidence to go further,” she said.
Rotary Club of Maloti president, Yande Sikazwe Mothae, said the organisation remains committed to uplifting communities and making a difference.
She encouraged learners to take care of the items they received and to make good use of the books to improve their communication skills.
She also urged them to give back to others in the future.
Ms Mothae thanked SLB for partnering with the club, noting that this year’s theme is “Uniting for Good”.
“We hope to implement more projects together going forward,” she said.
On behalf of Sefikaneng Primary School, school board member, Sankatana Mosunyane, expressed appreciation for the donation, saying it had come at an opportune time as winter approaches.
“Not every parent can afford to buy school shoes for their children, so this support is greatly appreciated,” Mr Mosunyane said.
‘Mamathe Community High School principal, Molibeli Ralebese, also welcomed the donation.
“Initially, I thought we would receive 50 pairs, but when I was told it was 100, I was overwhelmed. We have 117 learners, and we were assured that the remaining 17 will also be assisted. I am truly grateful,” Mr Ralebese said.
He urged learners to remember the message behind the donation and to help others when they are in a position to do so.
Meanwhile, the Rotary Club of Maloti also pledged to assist the remaining 26 learners at Sefikaneng Primary School to ensure that every child benefits from the initiative.