The BIHL Trust Donates P250,000 to Maru-a-Pula Vulnerable Children Scholarship Programme
- In a continuous effort to improve the lives of Botswana’s youth through education, the BIHL Trust, the charitable arm of the BIHL Group, proudly reaffirms its commitment to the Maru-a-Pula Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) Scholarship Programme. This week, the Trust has made a substantial contribution of P250,000 to the programme, furthering its mission to empower the nation’s underprivileged students by providing them access to world-class education and essential skills development.
“The future of Botswana lies in the hands of these young people,” said Claire Mathe-Lisenda, CEO of BIFM, a subsidiary of the BIHL Group. “The Maru-a-Pula OVC Programme allows us to invest directly in the future of Botswana’s children, equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to lead, innovate, and inspire. Every child, regardless of their background, deserves the opportunity to shine, and this programme ensures that they can.”
The Maru-a-Pula OVC Scholarship Programme has been a transformative force for many students over the years, providing life-changing opportunities for academically talented but underprivileged children. These scholars have risen above challenging circumstances, excelling academically, and becoming community leaders, exemplifying the power of education as a tool for social mobility. The programme continues to foster a culture of excellence and ambition, inspiring other children to work hard and pursue their dreams.
This year’s donation represents another significant milestone in the BIHL Trust’s long-standing commitment to the development of Botswana’s education sector. Since its inception in 2007, the BIHL Trust has worked tirelessly to uplift communities across the country, with education at the heart of its mission. Mathe-Lisenda added, “Our duty is to ensure these young people have the best foundation possible, so they can carry forward the legacy of our nation as tomorrow's dreamers, achievers, and leaders.”
The BIHL Trust firmly believes that investing in education is an investment in the future of Botswana. By nurturing today’s youth, the Trust ensures that tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs are well-equipped to drive the nation’s growth and prosperity. This support is not just an academic investment but a holistic contribution to the nation’s human capital.
Maru-a-Pula Principal, Nicholas Evans, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the continued partnership with the BIHL Trust, stating, “We are deeply grateful to the BIHL Trust for their unwavering support of our Orphans and Vulnerable Children Scholarship Programme. This donation will transform lives, allowing young people to receive a world-class education and develop the skills they need to thrive. With partners like the BIHL Trust, we are creating opportunities for our future leaders, innovators, and change-makers.”
This is the 13th year that the Trust is supporting the Maru-a-Pula OVC Scholarship Programme, with P2 750,000.00 invested to date. This impact has also been scaled to support Delta Waters School Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) Scholarship Programme in Maun – now for the 3rd consecutive year - established based on the success of the Maru-a-Pula initiative.
The BIHL Trust remains dedicated to empowering the youth of Botswana, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to reach their full potential. Through ongoing investments in education, the Trust continues to improve the lives of young Batswana, helping them not only shape their own futures but also contribute to the development and success of the nation as a whole.