Photos: Shepherds in Lesotho Pursue Education Despite Herding Duties
Thousands of boys and men in Lesotho engage in the vital profession of herding, but must forego their education. A small network of schools operating on a limited budget is providing them with basic literacy skills.
Background on Herding and Education in Lesotho
- Lesotho is a landlocked country surrounded by South Africa
- Herding is a crucial occupation in the country, particularly for sustaining rural communities
- Lack of educational opportunities often forces young people into herding careers
The Role of Night Schools in Lesotho
In Lesotho, night schools are playing a vital role in helping herders acquire basic literacy skills.
These schools, operating on a shoestring budget, provide an essential service for young people who must balance their duties as shepherds with their pursuit of education.
Photos Capture the Commitment of Shepherds
A recent series of photos by Tommy Trenchard for NPR captures the dedication of these young men and boys as they make their way down the mountain to attend night classes.
The images showcase the challenges faced by these shepherds, who must navigate treacherous terrain while balancing their education.
Lesotho's Night School Initiative
In Lesotho, a dedicated group of educators is working tirelessly to provide basic literacy education to shepherds who must tend to their flocks during the day.
These night schools aim to empower herders with essential reading, writing, and numeracy skills, enabling them to improve their lives and contribute to their communities.
A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words: The Impact of Night School
The photos by Tommy Trenchard for NPR tell a powerful story about the impact of the night school initiative in Lesotho.
These images showcase the determination of the shepherds, who climb down the mountain each evening to attend classes and gain essential skills that can change their lives.
</body> </html><small>Source: NPR — read the original story there.</small>