Refiloe Molise and Mamello Rakotsoane
Outstanding learners in science and mathematics were honoured during the 2026 awards ceremony hosted by the Lesotho Science and Mathematics Teachers Association (LSMTA) at the ‘Manthabiseng Convention Centre on 20 March 2026.
The ceremony recognised top-performing candidates in the LGCSE, IGCSE and Grade 7 national examinations, celebrating academic excellence while promoting interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Speaking at the event, LSMTA’s president Keketso Leteba said the initiative is aimed at inspiring learners to pursue STEM careers and encouraging schools to strengthen science education nationwide.
“This annual event was developed to celebrate academic excellence in STEM education and to inspire learners to strive for similar success,” Leteba said.
“We hope that by acknowledging their achievements, we will motivate other learners to embrace science and mathematics as the foundation for their future careers.”
Leteba revealed that 34 LGCSE and IGCSE candidates, each achieving at least two A* grades in science and mathematics subjects, were honoured, alongside 99 Grade 7 learners who ranked among the national top 10.
He, however, raised concern over declining performance in mathematics, despite improvements in biology and physical science.
“Mathematics is the mother of all careers. Every career needs a foundation in mathematicsand therefore this decline requires strong collaboration from all stakeholders,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of exposing learners to international competitions such as the Pan-African Mathematics Olympiad, noting that participation has boosted learners’ confidence and performance in the subject.
The ceremony drew participation from key stakeholders in the education sector, including representatives from the National University of Lesotho, Botho University and Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, as well as officials from the Examinations Council of Lesotho and the Council on Higher Education (CHE).
Speaking on behalf of the Council on Higher Education, Tselane Thokoane urged learners to enrol only in accredited institutions and programmes to ensure their qualifications are recognised both locally and internationally.
“It is important to verify the accreditation status of institutions to ensure your qualifications are recognised locally and internationally,” Thokoane said.
She further encouraged learners to plan their careers strategically and seek institutions that uphold high academic standards.
Speaking on behalf of the award recipients, Karabo Shao expressed gratitude to teachers, parents and sponsors for their support.
“This moment shows what determination and dedication can achieve. Now the question is what we will do next with the skills we have gained to help our country and the world,” Shao said, underscoring a sense of responsibility among young achievers to contribute to national development.
The event was supported by several partners, including First National Bank (FNB) Lesotho, which has sponsored the awards for the past two years.
Pontso Khalane, FNB strategy and business development manager, said the bank’s support reflects its commitment to investing in young talent and fostering a future of shared prosperity.
“Math and science are not just subjects, they are building blocks for innovation, economic growthand national development,” Khalane said.
She added that the bank rewarded students with funds and youth accounts to promote a culture of saving and financial planning from an early age.
The ceremony concluded with a call for more schools across Lesotho to join LSMTA and actively participate in its programmes aimed at strengthening the teaching and learning of science and mathematics nationwide.
“By expanding participation, we can collectively raise the standards of STEM education, produce more top achievers and ensure that Lesotho’s youth are equipped to compete globally,” Leteba said in closing.
Summary
- Outstanding learners in science and mathematics were honoured during the 2026 awards ceremony hosted by the Lesotho Science and Mathematics Teachers Association (LSMTA) at the ‘Manthabiseng Convention Centre on 20 March 2026.
- The ceremony drew participation from key stakeholders in the education sector, including representatives from the National University of Lesotho, Botho University and Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, as well as officials from the Examinations Council of Lesotho and the Council on Higher Education (CHE).
- The ceremony concluded with a call for more schools across Lesotho to join LSMTA and actively participate in its programmes aimed at strengthening the teaching and learning of science and mathematics nationwide.
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