26 Jul 2020

The First Lady, Ms Neo Masisi, has donated blankets to be distributed among 1 400 pupils and staff of Moeding College in Otse in the South East District.

When handing over the blankets on June 25, Ms Masisi, said she recently received blankets from China’s first lady, which she decided to pass to Moeding, but had to source other blankets to cater for the entire school community.

Ms Masisi said pupils needed to be kept warm during the ongoing winter period.

She encouraged pupils to be committed committed to their studies, adding that she was hopeful that the blankets would contribute to their wellbeing at the school.

She regretted that Moeding College had been underperforming with statistics indicating that the school was regressing.

Therefore, she encouraged pupils to craft their own legacy.

The First Lady advised pupils to stay away from alcohol and sexual relationships, which could derail them from their academic path.
 

Ms Masisi said teenage pregnancy was another problem among learners, stating that Moeding College recorded seven cases in 2018 and nine in 2019.

She expressed worry about the situation that exposed pupils to HIV. She paid tribute to teachers for shaping the community’s socio-economic wellbeing.

Ms Masisi said teachers ensured that pupils followed the COVID-19 health protocols.

The school’s board chairperson, Reverend Keloneilwe Kgerethwa said the school, which opened its doors in 1962 with 60 pupils, had grown significantly.

However, he said the school faced challenges such as dilapidation since there had never been major maintenance.

Rev Kgerethwa said the school’s P7.2m annual funding from government was not enough.

He cited alcohol, substance abuse and sexual relationships as some of the things that distracted learners in their studies.

The area MP, Mr Lefoko Moagi, encouraged pupils not to give into drugs, alcohol and relationships, which could disrupt their future.

 Mr Moagi advised pupils that if they fell into temptation, they should be quick to rediscover themselves and move forward. ENDS