Maseru- First-year students at Lerotholi Polytechnic find themselves in a precarious position as they await sponsorship for their degree programs. What was meant to be a promising start to their academic journey has turned into a tale of uncertainty.
Students who were supposed to start their degree programmes are left stranded, some discovered they were enrolled in degree programs without prior notification. This discrepancy arose from using outdated prospectuses, which listed diploma programs instead of the degrees they were placed into.
The net effect of this is that these students are unable to secure sponsorship from National Manpower Development Secretariat (NMDS).
According to Registrar and Council board Secretary,Maleshoane Lepota – Mosakeng, the school submitted a proposal to the NMDS requesting sponsorship for the affected students, contingent upon including this year’s tuition fees. However, months have passed without a definitive response, leaving students and their families in distress.
The consequences of this delay are stark. Many students have been forced to drop out due to the financial strain, unable to afford the required materials and living expenses.
The lack of sponsorship has created a domino effect, jeopardizing the academic aspirations of those eager to pursue higher education.
While the Ministry of Finance works on resolving the sponsorship issue, students are left in limbo. Despite assurances from the school authorities, clarity on the matter remains elusive. Some students express frustration at the lack of transparency and support during this challenging time.
The dropped out students have been assured that they will be given priority consideration if they choose to re-enrol.
