Lesotho Kicks Off STI Week 2026 to Drive Innovation and Growth

The National Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Week 2026 officially commenced in Maseru, led by Honourable Nthati Moorosi, the Minister of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation. This week-long event seeks to unite various stakeholders to evaluate and implement scientific advancements that can effectively tackle Lesotho's pressing issues.

Aims of STI Week

Under the theme "Exploring the Role of Science, Technology and Innovation in Improving Lives and Building a Better Future," the focus is on translating research into actionable solutions that uplift the Basotho community. Minister Moorosi expressed the urgent need for scientific innovation to penetrate all areas of life, driving job creation and boosting economic expansion.

Bridging the Research Gap

Moorosi emphasized that scientific findings must no longer be confined to academic circles but should inform practical applications across sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and industry. She pointed out that the government is actively working to refine the Research and Innovation Policy, which is designed to facilitate the conversion of intellectual discoveries into commercially viable products.

Innovative Solutions for Agriculture

In a forward-looking initiative, the Ministry is partnering with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition to create an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot. This tool aims to provide farmers with timely agricultural insights, enhancing productivity by offering essential insights and advice.

Moreover, the government is committed to upgrading the High-Performance Computing infrastructure at the Mohale’s Hoek Data Centre. This upgrade will allow for advanced data analysis and the development of AI solutions tailored to local contexts.

Encouraging Young Innovators

Minister Moorosi called upon universities, researchers, and emerging innovators to go beyond theoretical advancements. They are encouraged to validate and refine their ideas, turning them into practical applications that can benefit society as a whole.

Matšepo Mosoka, the Acting Director of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, echoed this sentiment by expressing her organization’s dedication to leveraging science and technology as pivotal elements for sustainable development.

Program Highlights

This year's STI Week is structured around various thematic developments including agriculture, healthcare, digital innovation, and climate resilience. It serves as an essential venue for knowledge sharing, fostering collaborations, and uncovering local solutions to address national hurdles.

Through STI Week, the Lesotho government aims to fortify the country's innovation landscape, ensuring that scientific progress leads to tangible improvements in productivity, economic growth, and livelihoods.