On the 2nd November, 2022, National University of Lesotho (NUL) Management together with the Maseru City Council (MCC) went on a site visit of the Institute of Extra Mural Studies (IEMS) Maseru campus. The purpose of the site visit was for MCC to table its project concept/ intention to construct an over-pass road that will run through and cut across the IEMS site. In essence, MCC was asking NUL to be ready to come negotiate what the former is proposing regarding the encroachment onto the land owned by the University. MCC also gave a brief overview of the proposed plans for construction, the maps, the demarcations and the areas of the IEMS land that will likely be affected by the proposed road construction. During the visit, it was noted that MCC is yet to share a detailed concept paper with NUL.

While NUL understands the pressing need for construction of roads, NUL emphasized that it will only be ready to engage in the talks/negotiations once a Legal Notice on this proposed construction of a road is in place. It is expected that, among others, the Legal Notice will talk about the land to be encroached onto, relocations, construction, safety measures and (most importantly) compensatory clauses that will guide the negotiations and agreements between the two parties.

Among others, it is expected that during and after the construction of road, traffic will not be obstructed on either side of the thorough-fare, sound barriers will be erected, retaining walls and other protective measures will be in place to ensure the safety of the people and property on the IEMS site. On the whole, the site visit was part of preliminary talks where MCC tabled its project concept and no agreement has been reached between the NUL and MCC; neither have the compensatory talks been held. Besides, MCC is yet to present an environmental impact assessment report.

NUL Team comprised of:

Vice-Chancellor – Prof. Isaac Olusola Fajana

Pro-Vice-Chancellor – Assoc. Prof. Kananelo E. Mosito

Registrar – Mrs. Liteboho Maqalika-Lerotholi

Bursar – Mrs. ‘Masechaba Mantsoe-Ntaopane

University Librarian (Ag) – Ms. ‘Mapasane Lephoto

Director IEMS (Ag) – Dr. Francis Okyere

Director Campus Services – Mrs. Senate Molapo

Director Legal Services (Ag) – Adv. Mamello Makau

Director Comms & Marketing – Mrs. ‘Mamosa Moteetee

SAR to Vice-Chancellor – Ms. Palesa Buti