Stories of Impact in Africa with AIT

rise International was privileged to host 90 dedicated volunteers from Action Ireland Trust (AIT), including high school students, parents, architects, and AIT management. This dynamic collaboration exemplifies the power of international cooperation in achieving meaningful change.

The AIT volunteers brought incredible energy and enthusiasm to the 5Hub Schools project, enriching the community with vibrant cultural exchange.

Transforming Education Infrastructure: The Makoanyane Primary School Project

Together with AIT, we’re revolutionizing early childhood education at Makoanyane Primary School in Maseru. Two shipping containers, generously donated from Ireland, are being transformed into a state-of-the-art creche facility. This nurturing space will provide a safe, stimulating environment for early childhood development and skills-building, addressing a critical need in the community.

Project Highlights:

Impact: This project will provide a strong foundation for young learners, fostering their growth and development.

Innovative Design: The creches interior and exterior are being meticulously crafted to create a child-friendly, vibrant, and educational space.

Local Ownership: We are proud of rise International’s pioneers and staff, who took over ensuring the project’s successful completion and long-term sustainability.

AIT’s Generous Donation: Strengthening Healthcare in Lesotho

rise International facilitated the donation of essential medical equipment by AIT to two local organizations: Starlight Oasis of Hope Hospice and Intellectual Disability and Autism Lesotho (IDAL). This generous contribution included wheelchairs, hospital beds, crutches, and zimmer frames, significantly enhancing the capacity of these organizations to provide vital care to vulnerable populations.

Collaborations and Partnership

Cultivating Lesotho’s Future Leaders

rise International is committed to empowering the next generation of changemakers. Our recent Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) program (26 February – 1 April 2025) connected students from:

• National University of Lesotho (NUL)
• Lerotholi Polytechnic (LP) (Lesotho)
• Nottingham Trent University (NTU) (United Kingdom)

This cross-cultural initiative addressed the critical theme of “Analyzing Building Materials in Lesotho for Affordable Housing.” Students explored sustainable housing solutions, with a focus on:

Environmental Sustainability: NTU students evaluated the ecological footprint of local materials, promoting environmental responsibility.

Economic Analysis: NUL students conducted cost analyses of various building materials, emphasizing affordability for low-income households.

Social Impact: LP students assessed the social impact of different construction materials, considering community acceptance, safety, and cultural relevance.