Lesotho minister urges innovation for jobs
Minister Nthati Moorosi called for research to become businesses and practical solutions for national challenges.
Lesotho must transform its science and innovation efforts into tangible businesses and jobs, according to Minister of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation Nthati Moorosi. Speaking at the third National Science, Technology and Innovation Week 2026, she urged the country to move beyond annual discussions and apply research to solve national problems and drive economic growth.
The event, held at the Lehakoe Recreation Centre, aims to promote the practical application of science, technology, and innovation (STI) to improve the lives of Basotho. Minister Moorosi stated that nations investing in knowledge and innovation are better positioned to industrialise and compete globally, emphasizing that Lesotho needs to become a producer of knowledge and solutions, not just a consumer of technology.
The government is strengthening policy frameworks, including the upcoming Research and Innovation Policy, to support this transition. This policy seeks to turn research into commercially viable products and services by fostering collaboration between universities, research institutions, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry, ensuring research benefits factories, farms, businesses, and communities.
Why it mattersLesotho's citizens are affected by the call to translate research into practical solutions that can create businesses and jobs.