Qacha’s Nek is one of 5 pilot districts selected for the programme, alongside Mokhotlong, Thaba-Tseka, Maseru and Berea. The initiative is being implemented under the Foundational Phase Support Project with support from UNICEF Lesotho

The National Early Childhood Care and Development Teacher Trainer for Qacha’s Nek, Nteboheleng Jim, said the project responds to research findings showing that many learners reach higher grades without basic reading and writing skills, particularly in Mathematics, Sesotho and English

She said Qacha’s Nek previously had 25 reception classes, and that through the Project, 47 primary schools have been selected, with 26 schools set to attach new reception classes this month

She said Sensitization campaigns began last October and are continuing this month, to sensitize the communities about the initiative

Community leaders and residents welcomed the initiative