Limpho Sello

THE China-Lesotho People-to-People Friendship Action Fund (CLPPFAF) has extended a hand of assistance to 53 vulnerable learners with year-long school fees assistance of M53 000.

The 53 learners were chosen from 21 high schools from the Berea district, with each child getting M1 000.

In his remarks during the handover ceremony at Assumption High School on Friday, Chinese Ambassador to Lesotho Sun Xianghua lauded CLPPFAF for once again coming to the aid of needy children.

CLPPFAF was established by the Chinese community in Lesotho with the support of the Chinese Embassy. Over the years, the fund has provided assistance to learners around the country.

He said some of the beneficiaries were underprivileged, while others were chosen for faring well in their studies.

“I think the help from the China-Lesotho People-to-People Friendship Fund has come at a right time and its impact will be far-reaching,” Dr Sun said.

“The assistance will not only help the 53 children, but also the families, the Berea district and Lesotho.”

“We all know that knowledge is strength and investment in education is the wisest and most valuable investment of all.”

CLPPFAF member and initiator, Chen Fei, said Chinese-owned businesses were supported by Basotho and in turn they were also rendering assistance.

“When I opened my business in Lesotho I was assisted by the government in making it operational. Basotho also play a role in the day-to-day running of our businesses. It only fair that we assist them as well,” Mr Chen said, adding that they would continue to provide assistance as they regarded themselves as part of the society.