Implementation of Free Primary Education will go a long way towards sustainable economic development and job creation in the country.

This was said by members of the Senate in their contributions regarding an evaluation study, which is currently being conducted by the Institute of Education of the National University of Lesotho to assess the impact of Free Primary Education.

Senators pointed out that the Free Primary Education (FPE) has created job opportunities to many people, who engaged in school feeding programme since its inception in 2000.

Furthermore, Senators maintained that introduction of the FPE led to the increased number of teachers who were employed in different schools in the country, and that infrastructure development has increased as more schools were constructed.

Members added that through FPE, Lesotho is regarded as one of the countries which has a vision to increase the level of literacy as FPE is not provided in many African and International countries.

Senators however, appealed to government to take a firm stand and make the system compulsory to all children, and that resources should also be made available to assist children with all forms of disability so that they can also be educated.

They further expressed the need for vocational training for pupils after completing their Primary School Leaving Examinations so that they can earn a living.

The purpose of the evaluation is to assess the impact of Free Primary Education by attaining feedback from various stakeholders that include, among others Senior Education Officers, School Committees, Parents and teachers.

Upon completion, the representatives of the Institute of Education will present a draft report to the Ministry of Education.

Source: LENA 29/05/2008