Against the backdrop of the Maluti Mountains and the shimmering waters of Katse Dam, a story of hope, skills development and economic renewal unfolded as the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) hosted a graduation ceremony for beneficiaries of its Skills Testing and Accreditation Programme and Community-Based Tourism training initiative.
Held at the Katse Old Information Centre, the ceremony brought together community members, government officials and development partners to celebrate the achievements of hundreds of Basotho who have completed training aimed at improving livelihoods in the highlands.
The event marked a significant milestone for the programme, a flagship initiative launched in 2025 to identify individuals with existing but uncertified skills in the built environment and formally assess them.
Under the initiative, participants undergo rigorous testing and, upon passing, receive accreditation and certification in their respective trades. These credentials are recognised across the SADC region, enabling beneficiaries to access broader employment opportunities.
This certification allows graduates to secure work within the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) and beyond.
A total of 386 artisans graduated during the ceremony, including 116 in bricklaying, 78 in masonry, 48 in roofing, 101 in plastering and 43 in welding. In addition, 36 participants received certificates in community-based tourism disciplines such as crafts and tour guiding.
To date, more than 1,000 beneficiaries from Mokhotlong have graduated from the programme and are actively participating in Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, highlighting the initiative’s growing impact.
Speaking at the event on behalf of LHDA’s Chief Executive, Ntšoli Maiketso highlighted that the programme is designed to accelerate access to employment for young people and adults living in project areas, many of whom previously faced barriers due to lack of formal certification despite possessing practical skills.
“The Skills Testing and Accreditation Programme is transforming lives by opening doors that were previously closed,” an Maiketso noted.
“It is about recognising talent, formalising it and ensuring that communities benefit directly from large-scale infrastructure projects.”
Equally significant was the recognition of graduates from the Community-Based Tourism training initiative, implemented in partnership with the Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC).
The programme equips local communities with skills in hospitality, guiding and cultural tourism, enabling them to actively participate in and benefit from tourism opportunities linked to Katse Dam and surrounding areas.
For the graduates, the ceremony was more than a formal occasion; it marked a turning point. Dressed in their finest, they stood proudly as they received certificates symbolising not only skills, but renewed opportunity and dignity.
Summary
- Against the backdrop of the Maluti Mountains and the shimmering waters of Katse Dam, a story of hope, skills development and economic renewal unfolded as the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) hosted a graduation ceremony for beneficiaries of its Skills Testing and Accreditation Programme and Community-Based Tourism training initiative.
- Held at the Katse Old Information Centre, the ceremony brought together community members, government officials and development partners to celebrate the achievements of hundreds of Basotho who have completed training aimed at improving livelihoods in the highlands.
- Speaking at the event on behalf of LHDA’s Chief Executive, Ntšoli Maiketso highlighted that the programme is designed to accelerate access to employment for young people and adults living in project areas, many of whom previously faced barriers due to lack of formal certification despite possessing practical skills.
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.
