Lesotho and Ghent University Explore Strategic Collaboration in Sustainable Development

On 25th February 2026, a high-level meeting took place at the Embassy of Lesotho in Brussels, marking a significant step in strengthening academic and research collaboration between Lesotho and Europe. Her Excellency Mantoetsi Mohatonyane, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Lesotho to the European Union and BENELUX, hosted Professor Glenn Rayp of Ghent University to discuss joint initiatives in sustainable energy, water resource management, and economics. The engagement focused on leveraging the expertise of both institutions to address Lesotho’s development priorities. Key topics included youth empowerment, employment creation, and advancing the country’s clean energy transition. The meeting underscored the potential of academic partnerships to support national development goals while enhancing research capacity.

During discussions, both parties explored Lesotho’s current and emerging opportunities in renewable energy, particularly hydropower and solar power. The embassy highlighted the National University of Lesotho’s flagship MSc programmes and the country’s potential to become a regional leader in sustainable energy solutions. Professor Rayp shared Ghent University’s experience in energy market economics, emphasizing the value of applying economic models to improve renewable energy distribution and affordability. Participants identified specific challenges such as the integration of renewable energy into existing infrastructure and the need for accessible, cost-effective solutions for communities. The meeting highlighted that combining Lesotho’s natural resource potential with Ghent University’s research expertise could address these gaps efficiently.

The engagement also focused on academic and research collaboration frameworks, including joint research projects, academic exchanges, and PhD opportunities. Both sides agreed to exchange institutional information and establish direct links between researchers to facilitate collaboration. The discussion emphasized building sustainable partnerships that benefit both students and faculty while generating practical solutions for Lesotho’s development challenges. The potential involvement of the United Nations University Centre for Comparative Regional Integration Studies (UNU-CRIS) was also considered, offering avenues for comparative studies and regional integration analysis. This would support Lesotho in implementing evidence-based policies and strategies while providing students with international exposure.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to formalize cooperation between the two universities. Ambassador Mohatonyane emphasized that partnerships like these are essential to strengthening Lesotho’s academic landscape and advancing sustainable development. Professor Rayp confirmed Ghent University’s readiness to contribute expertise and facilitate knowledge transfer to Lesotho. The collaboration is expected to enhance the country’s capacity in energy, water management, and economics, while providing research opportunities that align with global sustainability goals. By combining practical solutions with academic excellence, this partnership represents a strategic move toward addressing Lesotho’s pressing development challenges and building a skilled, future-ready workforce.