Lesotho Launches AI Skills Programme to Empower Youth and Strengthen Digital Economy

The Kingdom of Lesotho has taken a major step toward building a future ready workforce with the official launch of the Artificial Intelligence Skills Development Programme under the Sebabatso Youth Empowerment Initiative. The programme was launched by the Minister of Gender, Youth and Social Development, Honourable Pitso Lesaoana, in partnership with the United States Embassy in Maseru and the American Corner Maseru. The initiative forms part of a broader national strategy to prepare young people for the demands of a digital and technology driven global economy. The launch highlighted the growing importance of artificial intelligence in shaping modern business, education, and innovation systems. It also reflected a shared commitment between Lesotho and the United States to expand access to practical digital skills.

During the launch, Minister Pitso Lesaoana stressed the urgency of embracing new technologies as global industries continue to evolve at a rapid pace. He explained that artificial intelligence is no longer a future concept but a present reality influencing how businesses operate and compete. He encouraged young entrepreneurs and programme participants to fully engage with the training opportunities provided, noting that these skills can directly improve business performance. He highlighted that AI tools can help small businesses reach wider markets, reduce operational costs, and improve decision making. The Minister also emphasized that Lesotho must position itself to benefit from digital transformation rather than be left behind by it.

The United States Chargé d’Affaires to Lesotho, His Excellency Thomas Hines, underscored the programme’s goal of equipping entrepreneurs with practical and market relevant artificial intelligence skills. He explained that AI can support business owners in areas such as digital marketing, customer engagement, and global trade connectivity. He further noted that access to modern technology can help entrepreneurs in Lesotho connect with international markets in ways that were previously limited by geography and infrastructure. According to him, the initiative is designed to strengthen digital inclusion and ensure that young people are not excluded from the global digital economy. He also highlighted that collaboration between local institutions and international partners is key to building sustainable technological capacity.

The programme is implemented under the Sebabatso Youth Empowerment Initiative, which focuses on equipping young people with skills that improve employability and entrepreneurship outcomes. Through the integration of artificial intelligence training, the initiative aims to develop a new generation of innovators who can build technology driven solutions for local and global challenges. Participants are expected to gain hands on experience in using digital tools that support business development, marketing, and data driven decision making. The training is also designed to strengthen innovation ecosystems by encouraging creativity and problem solving among young entrepreneurs. This approach reflects a growing recognition that digital literacy is essential for long term economic development.

The launch of the Artificial Intelligence Skills Development Programme marks an important milestone in Lesotho’s journey toward a knowledge based economy. It brings together government leadership, international partnership, and youth focused development goals in a single coordinated effort. The programme is expected to produce entrepreneurs and business leaders who are better equipped to compete in an increasingly digital global marketplace. By investing in artificial intelligence skills, Lesotho aims to expand economic opportunities and strengthen its innovation capacity. The collaboration between the government of Lesotho and its international partners signals a shared vision of inclusive growth driven by technology, education, and entrepreneurship.