Lesotho Positions Youth at the Centre of Digital Transformation Through Innovation Forum

Young people in Lesotho are being urged to take a leading role in shaping the country’s digital future as government and industry stakeholders push for stronger youth participation in innovation and technology development. This call was made during the Youth and Innovation Forum held alongside the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) 64th Council Meeting in Maseru. The forum brought together policymakers, regulators, and young innovators to discuss how digital transformation can create meaningful opportunities for economic growth. It also highlighted the urgent need to prepare youth for a rapidly changing global economy driven by artificial intelligence and digital systems. The discussions reinforced the idea that youth are not just future participants but active contributors to today’s digital economy.

The Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation, Leronti Kanono Ramashamole, emphasised that Lesotho’s economic future depends heavily on empowering young people with relevant digital skills. He noted that global technological advancements are reshaping industries at a fast pace, and countries that fail to equip their youth risk being left behind. According to him, artificial intelligence, automation, and digital platforms are transforming how businesses operate and how services are delivered. This shift requires young people to be adaptable, skilled, and innovative in order to remain competitive in the global job market. His message focused on the importance of preparing youth not only for employment but also for entrepreneurship and innovation.

Ramashamole also stressed that young people must move beyond being passive users of technology and instead become active creators and problem solvers. He highlighted the need for education systems that support digital literacy, coding, and innovation-driven learning. Access to reliable internet connectivity and supportive policies was also identified as a key requirement for enabling youth participation in the digital economy. Without these foundations, many young people risk being excluded from opportunities created by technological advancement. He further noted that hosting the CTO Council Meeting in Maseru reflects growing international confidence in Lesotho’s role in digital development and regional cooperation. This recognition places additional responsibility on the country to continue investing in youth-driven innovation.

The forum also highlighted the importance of practical implementation of digital transformation strategies, not just policy development. The Chief Financial Officer of the Lesotho Communications Authority, Manganole Tsikinyane, emphasised that digital progress must translate into real opportunities for young people across the country. He warned that without tangible outcomes, digital transformation risks remaining at a theoretical level with limited impact on everyday lives. Tsikinyane encouraged young people to actively use technology to develop businesses, create innovative solutions, and access global markets. His remarks focused on turning digital access into economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods.

Tsikinyane further stressed the importance of ensuring equal access to digital tools and infrastructure. He noted that disparities in connectivity and digital skills can deepen inequality if not addressed effectively. To avoid this, he called for expanded digital skills development programmes, mentorship initiatives, and improved access to financing for youth-led enterprises. These measures are intended to support young innovators in turning ideas into viable businesses. He also highlighted that mentorship from experienced professionals can play a critical role in guiding youth through the challenges of entrepreneurship and innovation. This support system is essential for building confidence and capability among emerging entrepreneurs.

The discussions at the Youth and Innovation Forum also reflected a broader understanding of the role of youth in national development. Young people were encouraged to see themselves as key drivers of economic transformation rather than passive beneficiaries of policy decisions. The integration of digital technology into everyday life presents opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, education, finance, and creative industries. By equipping youth with the right skills and resources, Lesotho aims to unlock new pathways for job creation and economic diversification. This approach also aligns with global trends where youth-led innovation is becoming a major force in shaping digital economies.

Another important theme was the need for collaboration between government, regulators, educational institutions, and the private sector. Effective digital transformation requires coordinated efforts to ensure that infrastructure, training, and funding are aligned with national development goals. The forum highlighted that no single institution can achieve digital inclusion alone. Instead, partnerships are necessary to build a strong ecosystem that supports innovation at all levels. These partnerships are expected to create an environment where young people can experiment, develop ideas, and scale solutions that address real societal challenges.

The Youth and Innovation Forum held during the CTO 64th Council Meeting in Maseru has reinforced Lesotho’s commitment to placing young people at the centre of digital transformation. Government officials and industry leaders have made it clear that the country’s future depends on empowering youth with skills, access, and opportunities in the digital economy. From artificial intelligence to entrepreneurship, the message is focused on participation, innovation, and inclusion. As Lesotho continues to strengthen its digital agenda, the active involvement of young people will remain essential in building a resilient, competitive, and forward-looking economy.