Minister of Communications, Science and Technology Mr. Mothetjoa Metsing officially opened a section for visually impaired persons at the State Library in Maseru on Wednesday.

Speaking at the occasion, the Minister urged the visually impaired persons to protect the equipment that has been donated to them as well as to use it properly so that it will benefit the next generation.

He said Lesotho is among the least developed countries, which are facing numerous challenges that include ignorance, diseases and poverty adding that the government is working tirelessly with partners to address these challenges for the development of communities.

Mr. Metsing thanked the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for its contribution in providing the visually impaired with equipment, saying UNDP is always a reliable partner in supporting government to implement programmes for the improvement of Basotho.

On behalf of the United Nations Resident Representative, Ms. Charu Bist commended the Lesotho Government through the Ministry of Tourism, Environment and Culture for the effort it made to ensure that different sectors of the community have access to information through the Library.

Ms. Bist also advised beneficiaries to use the equipment effectively for the promotion and presentation of Lesotho's natural and cultural heritage.

The President of the Lesotho National League of the Visually Impaired Persons, Mrs. 'Mabataung Khetsi thanked the ministry for considering the need to provide visually impaired persons with equipment that will enable them to widen their education.

The equipment that include Braille embosser, use of software translator, large print desk top magnifier and r the Internet for research will enable beneficiaries to access information.

SOURCE LENA: 13/06/2007