Maseru, Feb. 09 — Lets’eng Diamond Mine has announced that it will not award new scholarships for the 2026 intake citing prevailing economic circumstances and ongoing challenges facing the global diamond industry.
The announcement was made during the education fair held at the Manthabiseng Convention Centre on Friday.
Corporate Social Responsibility Officer, Mr. Sefefo Tiela said the diamond sector is currently experiencing difficulties, with the market for rough diamonds performing poorly as buyers increasingly prefer polished diamonds.
Mr. Tiela said Lets’eng issued its first scholarship in 2006 and has since worked with the government of Lesotho to help identify and address critical skills shortages in the country.
He noted that a total of 55 scholarships have been awarded to young Basotho since the programme’s inception, covering fields such as mining, engineering, emergency medical care, geology and finance.
According to Mr. Tiela, 20 beneficiaries are currently employed by Lets’eng Diamond Mine, while 27 are employed in other sectors within Lesotho.
He explained that the recruitment process for the scholarship programme includes public advertising, shortlisting and interviews to ensure that deserving and capable students are selected.
The scholarship package has covered full tuition, transport, accommodation and medical care for recipients.
Beneficiaries are also required to complete a compulsory internship after their studies, equivalent to six months for every completed year of study, with preferential consideration for employment at Lets’eng Mine.
Mr. Tiela said Lets’eng remains dedicated to supporting education through scholarships and giving back to the community.
Meanwhile, Human Resources representative at Vodacom Lesotho, Mr. Teboho Latela, said the company sponsors students aged 28 and below in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields, with preference given to women and persons with disabilities.
He said the bursaries are fully funded and aimed at ensuring deserving students are given the best possible opportunity to pursue higher education.
The National Manpower Development Secretariat (NMDS) remains the main provider of government sponsored financial assistance to Basotho students pursuing tertiary education locally and abroad.
Ends/MOM/tl
