Ruane welcomes Lesotho exchange students to South Down

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has welcomed a group of exchange students from Lesotho to Ireland.

The group of 10 young people and two leaders from the southern African nation are staying in South Down for two weeks as part of a programme run by the South Eastern Education and Library Board. While here the students will engage in a range of educational activities and visits right across the north of Ireland.

Speaking during a special reception at Ardnabannon Outdoor Education Centre in Castlewellan, the Minister said: “It is a pleasure to welcome this group of young people to this very scenic part of Ireland. It is very exciting to travel to other countries as a young person and I am sure that the visiting students will gain a lot from their time here.

“I was privileged to be at the first free and fair elections in neighbouring South Africa, as an international observer, when Nelson Mandela was elected a world statesperson.

“The group will take part, along with local young people, in looking at issues of cultural diversity and rights. To further build on the experience, our visitors will return the hospitality as they host a group of young people from here in the Leribe district of west Lesotho.

“The exchange programme is the result of much hard work and close co-operation on the part of both the SEELB and the authorities in Lesotho and I commend all those involved for making this excellent learning experience possible for these young people.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The programme is funded by SEELB with contributions from the Commonwealth Youth Exchange and the Youth Service Community Support Scheme as well as contributions from the participants.
2. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 99 715 440, and your call will be returned.