Baitshephi social club donates to Matsheng students
Boikobo Mmolai | Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00
Speaking at the event, Baitshephi Social Club chairperson Lucretia Chima explained that their vision is to provide learners at the school with the necessary resources to guide and motivate them to become future leaders.
She revealed that for the past three years, they have been visiting Matsheng, and during this period, they have donated clothing, sanitary pads and a television set in partnership with friends from various stakeholders and organisations.
In her motivational address to the students, Chima emphasised that the primary goal of the fund is to eliminate challenges such as the lack of school uniforms and stationery.
The result, she said, will ensure that students have a comfortable environment that will not hinder their academic performance, especially during the winter season.
She also stressed that the school's remote location should not be a barrier to student achievement, as they now have resources comparable to those of other schools.
'It is painful to hear that a child could not attend school simply due to a lack of resources like a school uniform.
'We encountered a heartbreaking moment when a child came to school wearing flip-flops despite the chilly weather,' she shared. Chima further highlighted they want 'to inspire these students to become future leaders in their chosen fields and to help eliminate unemployment by providing the support needed to encourage education and academic excellence'. Consular General of the Philippines, Anelia Vistor, also delivered words of encouragement, reminding students that regardless of the size of the donation, respect, discipline, and hard work are the most essential principles for achieving excellence.
'The donation might be small, but it is meaningful. What truly matters is your attitude, hard work, and discipline. Show respect to your teachers, these are the habits that build your character and the values that make those around you value you,' she said.
Vistor described education as a bridge connecting students to a brighter future, not just for themselves, but for their families and the country as a whole. She urged students to work hard and take advantage of government scholarships to pursue diplomas or degrees and become future leaders.
'Dream big, and do not be influenced by negative behaviours,' she said. Furthermore, Sojwe Counselor Sentlhaga encouraged students to embrace what they have learned and to reject the notion that teachers are violent, as this attitude can help them follow in their teachers' footsteps.
He referenced the Setswana proverb, 'thako ya morago e gata fa ya pele e gatileng teng', which underscores the importance of following the path set by those ahead.
The school head, Shadrack Keatholetswe, informed the audience that Baitshephi Social Club had donated a television, but students have been reluctant to use it for entertainment. He urged them to utilise it for their benefit, as it was intended to help reduce boredom. Baitshephi Social Club also invited renowned artist Lerofo to provide both entertainment and motivation during the ceremony. Lerofo expressed his appreciation for the donations and encouraged Matsheng JSS students to reciprocate generosity by striving for academic excellence.
He explained that life consists of various stages of growth and development, and advised students to focus on their current stage to understand what is appropriate and beneficial.
'Abstain from drug and substance abuse; these can destroy your future,' he emphasied.
Additionally, he encouraged girls to report anyone attempting to influence them into inappropriate sexual behaviour, strongly urging them to say, 'No.'