…donates school shoes, bags and stationery to local primary schools
Moroke Sekoboto
AS the 2026 academic year begins, Maseru Mall has demonstrated its commitment to uplifting communities within its catchment area through a meaningful Back-to-School Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiative, benefiting 100 learners at Boitelo Primary School and another 100 at Ratjomose Primary School in Maseru.
Maseru Mall Marketing Manager, Teboho Mncina, said that as part of this year’s CSI programme, the mall donated 200 pairs of school shoes, 200 school bags and 200 pencil cases, providing much-needed support to learners from underprivileged backgrounds as they start the academic year. The donations were officially handed over to the two schools on Friday, reinforcing the mall’s dedication to education and child development.
In previous years, Maseru Mall staff traditionally visited Boitelo Primary School during the festive season to share a Christmas lunch with learners. While the initiative was warmly received, the mall took a deliberate decision this year to implement a more long-term and impactful intervention.
Mr Mncina emphasised that the gesture is a core part of the mall’s commitment to being a “shopping home” that genuinely cares for its surrounding community. He said the Back-to-School CSI initiative forms part of Maseru Mall’s broader mission to support vulnerable children and strengthen community partnerships beyond retail, ensuring the mall remains a centre of positive social impact.
“The donation drive forms part of the mall’s Back to School 2026 campaign, which aims to provide essential footwear to learners who often walk long distances to reach their classrooms,” Mr Mncina said.
“By addressing the lack of basic necessities, the initiative seeks to restore dignity and boost the confidence of young learners as they return to their studies.”
He added that the programme specifically targets vulnerable children in primary schools neighbouring Maseru Mall.
“While the mall has initiated this drive, we also encourage other businesses and shoppers to participate in ongoing community upliftment efforts throughout 2026.”
He further extended gratitude to school management and educators from both schools for their support in making the initiative a success, reaffirming Maseru Mall’s pledge to continue developing programmes that meaningfully uplift local communities.
The initiative coincides with broader national efforts to revitalise Maseru and invest in the future of Basotho youth. The donation follows similar 2026 school shoe drives by other major organisations in Lesotho, signalling a nationwide corporate push to ensure no child is left behind this academic year.
Ratjomose Primary School Principal, ‘Maleloko Phihlela, said such donations are critical, noting that the lack of proper shoes is a major contributor to absenteeism, poor academic performance and demotivation among underprivileged learners.
“We are grateful to Maseru Mall for their generous gesture. These new shoes prevent learners from feeling discriminated against or developing low self-esteem when compared to their peers,” Ms Phihlela said.
“Proper footwear allows students to focus on their education without the physical discomfort of walking barefoot or in worn-out shoes.”
Meanwhile, Boitelo Primary School Board Chairperson, Teboho Mosili, said the donations are especially vital during winter, when harsh weather conditions often lead to increased absenteeism. He described Maseru Mall as a “responsible corporate citizen” that understands the realities of unemployment and poverty within the community.
Mr Mosili noted that many of the beneficiaries are orphans from child-headed households or families with unemployed parents who struggle to afford basic school uniforms. He stressed that such initiatives should not be viewed merely as charity, but as a meaningful investment in the country’s future leaders.