Lesotho Principals Association Hosts Biennial Conference to Tackle Education Challenges

The Lesotho Principals Association (??????????) held its much-anticipated biennial conference in Maseru on September 26-27, 2024, marking the first such gathering since 2016. With the theme "?????????????????? ???????????? ???????????? ?????????????????? ????????????,"the event convened principals, education experts, and key stakeholders to tackle the urgent issues facing Lesotho’s education system. This conference followed LEPSA's participation in the International Confederation of Principals (ICP) Conference held in Mombasa, Kenya, in August 2024, and was officiated by the Honourale Minister of Education and Training, Prof. Ntoi Rapapa.

LESPA President Mathafeng Moteuli highlighted that this year’s conference aimed to raise awareness about critical threats to the country’s education system and explore viable solutions. Moteuli stated, "There are 11 critical threats we have identified that hinder educational progress in Lesotho," pointing to issues such as democratizing school governance, financing schools, principals' mental health, prolonged acting appointments without pay, and curriculum reforms.

Key topics discussed included the relevance of school principals in the 21st century, the increasing role of digitalization and artificial intelligence in education, and the importance of strategic planning in schools. Additionally, the rise of student leadership and the significance of giving young learners a voice in school governance were major focal points.

Kimanzi Muthengi , UNICEF Lesotho Country Office Deputy Representative, underscored the importance of student participation in school governance. In his presentation, he reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to supporting initiatives that empower students to become active decision-makers in shaping their educational experience. "This is about more than engagement—it’s about fostering a culture of inclusion, accountability, and shared leadership," Muthengi remarked, emphasizing that democratizing school governance is vital for creating a more inclusive and responsive education system in Lesotho.

Professor Mohaeka Raselimo from the National University of Lesotho delivered a compelling analysis of the immense challenges school principals face today. With increasing workloads and a growing need for transformative leadership, Raselimo called for a new approach to educational leadership. "For schools to thrive, we must focus on both student outcomes and the well-being of our educational leaders," he stated, noting that principals are key to fostering resilient and effective school environments.

Other keynote speakers included Mr. Welcome Mlanga, Africa Confederation of Principals (ACP) President, who spoke on the principal’s workload and its impact on well-being, and ICP Past President Prof. Kent, who presented on the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in education.

Drawing lessons from the ICP conference, LESPA has also adopted a forward-thinking approach by prioritizing students' voices in school governance. One learner's statement at the conference captured this sentiment: "Quality and inclusive education is not just a goal but a necessity for a brighter future." This resonated with participants, many of whom agreed that schools should create more opportunities for students to contribute to decision-making processes.

Supported by the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET), UNICEF Lesotho , Standard Lesotho Bank , Higherlife Foundation , First National Bank and the National University of Lesotho (NUL), the conference has set the stage for continued dialogue and action. This collaboration between educators, government officials, private sector and development partners marks a crucial step toward addressing long-standing educational challenges in Lesotho.

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