02 Jul 2023

Absa bank of Botswana has donated a sick bay valued at P266 475 to Lephoi Centre for learners with visual impairment.

The donation comes hardly two weeks after Debeers Group of Companies and Business Botswana (BB) donated marimba musical equipment worth P43 000 to the centre.
Speaking at the hand over ceremony of the donation recently, Absa regional manager (central), Ms Kegomodistwe Gaebolae said it was not the value of the donation, but the impact that the donation would have on the lives of the beneficiaries.

Ms Gaebolae explained that Absa was passionate on giving back to the community as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
 “We consider ourselves as an active force in improving the lives of people with disabilities as well as Batswana in general. The donation underscores our commitment to giving back to the community and showcases our dedication to the development of the wellbeing of the people of Botswana,” she said.

She explained further that the donation of the sick bay aligns with Absa bank’s commitment to supporting education and skills development.
She said Absa firmly believe in the importance of education and skills development, especially for individuals with special needs.

In addition, Ms Gaebolae said the bank is committed to continuing its efforts to support other educational initiatives and make positive impact in the communities it serves.
This includes providing financial literacy, which aims to empower individuals, drive sustainable development, and contribute to the overall wellbeing of the society.   

“We believe that financial literacy plays a vital role in equipping individuals with the necessary skills to make informed decisions, thereby fostering economic growth and stability while creating a more prosperous society,” She stated.

The sick bay will make a profound impact to the learner’s health as it will ensure that the pupils received the necessary care when unwell.
In his welcome remarks, chairperson of Lephoi Centre, Mr Kitso Ramahobo explained that the centre was a home to the visually impaired children, was faced with financial challenges.
However, he said UCCSA women, who are the administrators of the centre, have made efforts to raise P60 000, which will be used to connect water and electricity to the sick bay.
He also indicated that part of the money will be used to buy bedding, and other necessities.

Mr Ramahobo said the sick bay will overcome some of the challenges the centre has been facing and promised to put the donation to good use.
“The idea of sending pupils home when they are unwell will come to an end,” said Mr Ramahobo.

He explained that the centre has a five-hectare plot, which is used for agricultural purpose whose primary target is those who are not academically gifted.
Lephoi Centre for the Blind was established in 1985 with the help of a German company, Christoffel Blinden Mission and it offers services ranging from rehabilitation, accomodation, stimulation, academic support, spiritual development, skills transfer programmes and psychological support. Ends