National University of Lesotho (NUL) marked a historic 80th Anniversary milestone with a grand Fundraising Gala Dinner, held in Maseru on 1st November, 2025. The event served as a high-profile gathering of the University community, distinguished alumni, international dignitaries, and development partners to honour the institution’s enduring legacy and its pivotal role in national development.
The evening reached a crescendo with the official unveiling of the new NUL Blazer by the NUL Chancellor, His Majesty King Letsie III. His Majesty described the blazer as more than mere attire but a symbol of the enduring legacy and identity of an institution that has anchored Lesotho’s intellectual growth since 1945.
The celebration also featured the premiere of a 20-minute documentary titled, “Eighty Years of Transforming Education: The Legacy and Future of NUL.” The film offered a nostalgic yet inspiring look at the university’s evolution from its humble origins as Pius XII Catholic University College to its current status as the nation’s premier center for higher learning. It highlighted the founding years; growth and transformation; service to the nation and region; community engagement and impact; NUL’s pivotal role in regional research and innovation, community impact, and its roadmap for the next 80 years.
In his keynote address, the NUL Chancellor, His Majesty King Letsie III praised NUL’s enduring contribution to the nation.
“For eight decades, the National University of Lesotho has shaped the minds and values of our people. As we celebrate this milestone, we honour not only the institution but the generations whose dreams have passed through the National University of Lesotho. We are building the university of the future shaped by sustainability, digital transformation and global citizenship”.
University leadership echoed this sentiment of forward momentum. Reflecting on the institutional journey, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olusola Fajana said: “The NUL 80th Anniversary is not merely a commemoration but that it is A call to reimagine what higher education can achieve for our country and our region. We remain committed to excellence, innovation, and partnerships that will transform the future.”
Dr. Khabele Matlosa, Chairman of Council, emphasised the University’s commitment to accountability and sustainable growth.
“The NUL Council is dedicated to guiding NUL with integrity and foresight. Our responsibility is to safeguard the university’s legacy while ensuring it is equipped to meet the challenges and opportunities of the next eighty years.”
Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Assoc. Prof. Kananelo Mosito outlined a vision for digital transformation and research excellence.
“The strength of NUL lies in its people-our students, our staff, our alumni, and our communities. As we enter a new era, we are investing in teaching, research, and digital transformation to ensure NUL remains competitive on the continental stage.”
The Gala drew alumni from across the African continent reflecting the University’s far-reaching influence and the strength of its alumni network. Many shared fond memories of their time at NUL while expressing pride in how the institution has evolved into a modern, globally connected university.
The celebration also attracted representatives from government ministries, corporate sponsors, private sector organizations, and academic partners who re-affirmed their support for NUL’s mission through pledges. Their presence underscored the strong partnerships that continue to propel the University toward greater achievements.
Throughout the evening, guests were treated to a world-class experience featuring elegant décor, fine dining, and captivating entertainment that reflected the spirit and sophistication of the occasion. The atmosphere was one of profound optimism; striking a balance between nostalgia for the past and optimism for the future.
As the culmination of a year-long celebration, the Fundraising Gala Dinner stood as a testament to NUL’s journey from humble beginnings as the Pius XII University College to its position as Lesotho’s premier institution for human capital development and research.
Notable dates and names of the institution during evolution
8 April 1945 – Pius XII Catholic University College
1 January 1964 – University of Basutoland, Bechuanaland Protectorate, and Swaziland (UBBS)
October 1966 – University of Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland (UBLS)
20 October 1975 – National University of Lesotho (NUL)
