October 30 marked the conclusion of the National University of Lesotho (NUL)’s 50th convocation, celebrating 393 graduands in postgraduate studies. The convocation, themed “Equipping Graduands with Impact,” began its first leg from September 22 to 26, covering degrees in the Faculties of Humanities, Education, Law, Science and Technology, Health Sciences, Agriculture and Social Sciences. The final ceremony focused on postgraduate achievements, drawing prominent figures including former Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Lesao Lehohla.
The postgraduate segment included the conferment of four doctoral degrees, 209 Masters degrees, 96 honours degrees, and 87 postgraduate diplomas. Chancellor His Majesty King Letsie III praised the graduands for their dedication, perseverance and hard work. He emphasized that these academic achievements should serve as a beacon of hope, resilience and commitment to national development. “Your PhD and Masters accomplishments stand as commitment to advance knowledge and expertise in national development,” he said.
The Chancellor highlighted the importance of research in equipping graduands with skills in entrepreneurship and leadership, stressing that these skills should benefit Lesotho and beyond. He commended the Faculty of Humanities for producing doctoral graduates since 2012, noting 14 doctoral graduates as a sign of institutional growth. He challenged all faculties to emulate and surpass this standard, urging continued excellence as the university approaches its 80th anniversary. He pointed to flagship programmes like the Masters of Science in Sustainable Energy and Masters of Science in Economics as tools for addressing pressing national development needs.
His Majesty expressed pride in the outstanding performance of the Masters of Science programmes over the years, stating that they have elevated both the institution and the country. He stressed that graduands must use their knowledge to create jobs and find solutions to challenges hindering development. Graduands were urged to be agents of change, champions of innovation, and advocates of justice, while remaining connected to NUL. He encouraged them to deposit copies of their theses in the university library to enhance future learning and strengthen NUL as a research hub.
Vice Chancellor Professor Isaac Fajana highlighted that the graduands’ achievements reflect their commitment to excellence. He noted that NUL has maintained programmes relevant to global needs and strengthened partnerships with the private sector. He urged graduands to continue learning and to contribute to positive change in their communities and the country. Chairman of NUL Council Dr. Khabele Matlosa also praised graduands for their resilience, reminding them to consider becoming job creators in a challenging employment landscape.
Graduands’ representative Ms. Qenehelo Mahamo acknowledged the collective effort of families, lecturers, and peers in achieving this milestone. She emphasized that their research should drive development and redefine national systems. She encouraged peers to seize this moment to shape the future of Lesotho.
Notable doctoral degrees conferred included Doctor of Laws to former Chief Justice Mahapela Lehohla, Doctor of Nursing Practice to the late Mrs. Mosebo Chabane, Doctor of Philosophy in Animal Science to Mr. Lebata Posane, and Doctor of Philosophy in English and Linguistics to Mr. Tapole Folela. The 50th convocation highlighted NUL’s commitment to producing skilled professionals, strengthening research, and contributing meaningfully to Lesotho’s socio-economic development.
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