The spirit of achievement and ambition filled the Lehakoe Recreational Centre this past weekend as Botho University hosted its highly anticipated sixth graduation ceremony.
The event brought together students, proud families, university faculty, and distinguished guests in a vibrant celebration of perseverance, academic excellence, and the transformative power of education.
Over 340 graduates from the Class of 2024 turned their tassels and received their hard-earned certificates in a moment marked by emotion and optimism. It was a time for reflection on past sacrifices and a call to imagine the positive impact they could make in the future.
More than a ceremonial rite of passage, the event echoed a national call to action. Graduates were reminded that they are leaving Botho not only with academic qualifications but also with a mission: to innovate with purpose, lead with integrity, and contribute to building a better Lesotho.
Delivering the keynote address, Botho University Vice-Chancellor Dr Sheela Raja Ram praised the graduates’ resilience and determination. She emphasised the university’s role as a transformative space that goes beyond conventional education.
“Today, we celebrate not just academic success, but the resilience, determination, and potential of each graduate. Botho is not business as usual. It is a space of innovation, vibrancy, and real-world impact. Our aim is to nurture extraordinary individuals, graduates who are not only employable but equipped to lead and adapt in a rapidly evolving world,” Dr. Raja said.
She further highlighted the importance of digital fluency and critical thinking in an era marked by rapid technological change.
Echoing Dr Sheela’s sentiments, the Minister of Education and Training, Professor Ntoi Rapapa, encouraged graduates to embrace innovation responsibly. He warned about the ethical pitfalls of technology, particularly the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
“Technology is a double-edged sword. It makes life easier, yes, but it can also compromise your values when misused. For example, using AI to plagiarise assignments may seem easy, but it undercuts your true potential. There are no shortcuts in life,” Rapapa cautioned.
His remarks underscored the importance of upholding integrity and ethical growth in the pursuit of success.
Adding significance to the occasion was the Guest of Honour, ‘Mathabo Mokoko, Commissioner General of Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL). She described the ceremony as both historic and inspiring.
“Lesotho faces many challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and health crises, among others. But I believe today’s graduates are capable of leading the charge toward positive change,” Mokoko said.
She urged the graduates to mentor others, become torchbearers of progress, and embrace their roles as professionals and nation-builders.
“This is not the end of your journey. It is the beginning of your responsibility to your country,” she said.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
