The Chancellor of the National University of Lesotho (NUL), His Majesty King Letsie III, officially inaugurated the University’s 16th Council during a ceremony held at the Roma Campus on 1 July 2026, marking the beginning of a new three-year governance term for the institution’s highest decision-making body.
During the inaugural sitting, Dr. Khabele Matlosa was elected Chairman of the 16th Council. The Council brings together representatives from the University’s governance structures, government, staff, students, alumni and other key stakeholders to provide strategic oversight and leadership.
Speaking at the ceremony, King Letsie III welcomed the new Council and reminded members that their appointment carries a responsibility that extends beyond the University. “The inauguration of this Council is far more than a ceremonial event. It represents a solemn entrustment of the authority to guide, govern and safeguard this University on behalf of the Basotho Nation,” he said.
The King described higher education as central to Lesotho’s development aspirations, noting that the National University of Lesotho has a critical role in advancing knowledge, shaping leadership and driving socio-economic transformation. He urged Council members to exercise good governance and uphold the University’s statutes.
Minister of Education and Training, Prof. Ntoi Rapapa, said the inauguration was significant not only for NUL but also for the country’s national development agenda. He said higher education remains a strategic driver of economic growth, innovation, skills development and improved public service delivery.
Prof. Rapapa congratulated the newly appointed Council members and reminded them of the responsibility they carry. “Council membership demands sound judgement, ethical leadership, and a sustained commitment to institutional performance, financial discipline, and the effective delivery of the University’s mandate,” he said.
The Minister called on the Council to prioritise quality assurance, research, digital transformation, graduate employability, financial sustainability and stronger partnerships with government, industry and communities. He said the success of the Council would ultimately be measured by how effectively it strengthens the University’s performance and relevance.
Accepting his election as Chairman, Dr. Khabele Matlosa thanked His Majesty, the Government and fellow Council members for the confidence placed in him. He pledged to provide strategic leadership that strengthens academic excellence, institutional accountability and the long-term sustainability of the University.
“The responsibility entrusted to this Council is both significant and demanding. We fully appreciate that good governance is the cornerstone of a successful university. Our collective responsibility is to ensure that the National University of Lesotho remains a centre of academic excellence, innovation, integrity and service to the nation,” said Dr. Matlosa.
Established under the National University of Lesotho Order No. 19 of 1992, the Council is the University’s supreme governing body. The inauguration of the 16th Council reaffirms NUL’s commitment to strong governance and its mission of delivering quality higher education in support of Lesotho’s national development.
