‘Mantoetse Maama

MASERU — Newly inaugurated Lesotho College of Education (LCE) chancellor, Dr Thokoana Motlatsi, on Friday said he was delighted to be able to serve his own people. Motlatsi was speaking at an inauguration function that was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Mothetjoa Metsing and other senior government officials. He said he viewed it as an honour to be able to serve his people at an institution that educates and trains a large percentage of the country’s teachers. “I hope we will work hard to develop this college and as a result produce teachers of the highest possible quality,” he said.
Motlatsi, who is a veteran educationist, said he believes the government will continue to offer the necessary support to enable the college to discharge its duties well. He also suggested to other chancellors of institutions of higher learning to start a Chancellors Trust that will contribute to the education of needy children. “I will contribute M50 000 of my personal money and other people can contribute the little they have once the account had been opened. Orphaned and vulnerable children are not only the government’s responsibility,” he said.

Metsing said Motlatsi was the most suitable candidate to fill the position. “Dr Motlatsi’s wealth of experience, leadership skills and abilities make him the most suitable candidate to assume the chancellorship of this college,” Metsing said. “I have no doubt in my mind that the new chancellor, together with the men and women who are serving in the college’s council and reinforced by the very able and competent team under the leadership of the college’s chief executive, will be able to steer this ship to safety.” Metsing said the LCE occupies a very strategic position in our national efforts to develop future leaders of this country.
LEC rector, John Oliphant, also praised Motlatsi’s appointment. “In 2004 he (Motlatsi) was given an Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy in social science for his contribution to social development by the National University of Lesotho,” he said. Motlatsi is a founder member and director of Adopt a School Foundation that seeks to improve the quality of schools in Lesotho and South Africa.