Old Mutual Foundation donates N$137 000 worth of solar study lights to schools

By: Hertha Ekandjo

The Old Mutual Foundation has donated solar-powered study lights worth N$137 000 to learners at three schools across the country to support after-hours learning.

The handover took place on Tuesday at Suiderlig Secondary School in Keetmanshoop and Empelheim Secondary School in Mariental, with further distribution scheduled for Evululuko Secondary School in Oshakati.

The initiative aims to assist learners who struggle to study after dark by providing reliable and sustainable lighting solutions, enabling them to complete homework and prepare for school in safer, well-lit conditions.

According to the foundation, in total, it has distributed solar lights across the three towns, with each unit valued at N$182.50. Keetmanshoop received 49 units, Mariental 304, and Oshakati is set to receive 400 units.

Speaking about the initiative, Old Mutual Public Affairs and Sustainability Executive, Mignon du Preez, said the Edu-Light programme is aimed at removing barriers to education.

“Access to reliable light can make a meaningful difference in a learner’s ability to study, improve focus and build confidence,” she said.

Du Preez added that the initiative aligns with the organisation’s broader focus on sustainability and community empowerment.

The solar-powered Pico Plus lights are designed for flexible use, functioning as a torch, desk lamp or wall-mounted light, and includes adjustable brightness settings and USB charging capability.

Learners have been encouraged to charge the devices during the day using sunlight and to keep them secure to prevent loss or theft.

The lights also come with a two-year warranty, with schools tasked to coordinate any replacements where necessary.