The Minister of Education and Training, Prof. Ntoi Rapapa, has commended the National University of Lesotho (NUL) Masters students for securing top ranking position among 26 Universities in the African region in categories “A” for the Joint Facility for Electives/African Economic Research Consortium.
The Joint Facility for Electives/African Economic Research Consortium (JFE/AERC) program provides virtual/online teaching of elective courses to students across its network of collaborating universities, specifically in the Collaborative Masters Programme (CMAP).
The Minister congratulated JFE/AERC top achievers, NUL leadership in the Department of Economics (in the Faculty of Social Sciences) at an event held on Friday, March 28th at ISAS Auditorium.
Prof. Rapapa indicated that securing a top ranking among Category A Universities is not a small thing, as that highlight the brilliance of the NUL students, whose hard-work and resilience resulted in ‘this extra-ordinary achievement’.
“Such a success however is never achieved in isolation, is the results of collaboration, a shared effort among students passionate about learning, lectures devoted for nurturing potential, and robust support system that forced us to academic growth. This achievement reflects what we accomplished as a nation, when we work together with a common purpose”, he said.
The Minister further pointed out that students’ accomplishment inspires all and reaffirm the transformative power of education in building brighter future, and that student’s dedication and pursued of excellence have high standard and brought immense pride to the nation.
The Minister reiterated by indicating that the role of economics in shaping national development cannot be overstated and that the strong economic foundation is critical to achieving Lesotho strategic objectives including economic diversification, poverty reduction and sustainable development by producing graduates equipped with the knowledge and skills needed.
Congratulating the top achievers in the same event, the NUL Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olusola Fajana said the University recognise and honour the outstanding performance of “our students, who have demonstrated exceptional academic prowess and dedication to excellence, as hard-work and perseverance have earned our university the top position in the last competition, and we couldn’t be prouder”.
“The journey of our students in this Elective Programme dates back to over three years ago, when in spite of joining the consortium very late, this group of students has come to the third position twice, they have finally come to the top in this current exercise”.
This achievement is a testament to the university commitment to providing a world-class education and fostering a culture of excellence, and reflects the collaborative spirit and dedication of “our faculty members, who have guided and supported our students throughout their academic journey”, VC said.
The Vice-Chancellor commended the achievement as part of the 80th Anniversary of the University of Lesotho, which its celebration will be officially flagged off by His Majesty King Letsie III on the 08th April, 2025.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we acknowledge the significance of program in promoting economic research and development in Africa. We are proud to be part of this initiative and to contribute to the growth and development of our continent. To our winning students, I offer my heartfelt congratulations. Your achievement is a shining example of what can be accomplished through determination, teamwork, and a passion for learning. We are honoured to have you as ambassadors of our University” Prof. Fajana said.
He expressed gratitude to the Faculty of the Department of Economics for tireless effort in supporting “our students and promoting academic excellence, and thanked the stakeholders for continued support and partnership, saying stakeholder’s contributions have been invaluable in helping the university achieving this milestone.
“As we celebrate today, lets us also look to the future with optimism and enthusiasm. Let us continue to strike for excellence, to innovate, and to make a positive impact to our communities”. He concluded.
The Department of Economics is widely recognized for its excellence, as evidenced by the success of its Master’s graduates who have participated in various competitions in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region and overseas. Their academic achievements and successful returns serve as a strong indicator that the department is on the right track.
