Lesotho Defence Force Officers Complete PSEAH Training to Strengthen Youth Safeguarding

The Lesotho Defence Force Youth Development Programme marked a significant milestone as officers successfully completed a three-day training on the Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH). The training, led by UNDP in collaboration with UNFPA Lesotho, aimed to equip officers with the knowledge and skills needed to uphold safeguarding standards while working with young people. Over the course of the three days, participants engaged in interactive sessions, case studies, and practical exercises designed to reinforce accountability, ethical conduct, and the protection of youth from harm. The programme emphasized the importance of creating safe, inclusive environments where young people can develop without fear of exploitation or abuse. Officers were encouraged to apply these principles consistently in their daily interactions and organizational practices.

The training covered a wide range of topics, including the identification of risks, reporting mechanisms, and the establishment of protective measures within youth programmes. Participants were trained on how to recognize and respond to situations of potential exploitation or harassment, ensuring that incidents are handled promptly and appropriately. UNDP and UNFPA facilitators stressed the importance of transparency and accountability, highlighting how these values build trust between officers and the youth they serve. The sessions also included discussions on legal frameworks and international standards, helping officers align their practices with both national regulations and global safeguarding norms. This comprehensive approach aimed to strengthen the capacity of the Lesotho Defence Force in promoting ethical and responsible youth engagement.

The culmination of the training was a certificate awarding ceremony, which recognized the commitment of officers who successfully completed the programme. Certificates were presented to each participant as a formal acknowledgment of their dedication to safeguarding and ethical conduct. This ceremony served as both a celebration of achievement and a reminder of the responsibilities that come with working with young people. Leaders emphasized that the training was not a one-time event but part of a broader, ongoing effort to institutionalize safe and accountable youth development practices. Officers were encouraged to continue learning and to actively promote safeguarding principles within their units and communities.

Beyond individual recognition, the training contributes to wider national efforts to strengthen youth protection mechanisms in Lesotho. By equipping officers with practical tools and knowledge, the programme enhances the overall effectiveness and credibility of youth development initiatives. The collaboration between UNDP, UNFPA, and the Lesotho Defence Force reflects a shared commitment to creating environments where young people can thrive free from exploitation or abuse. Officials highlighted that trained officers play a crucial role in setting standards for others in the sector, fostering a culture of accountability and respect. The initiative underscores the importance of coordinated action between international organizations and national institutions in addressing complex social challenges.

The successful completion of this PSEAH training represents a major step toward safer and more responsible youth development in Lesotho. Officers now possess the skills, knowledge, and ethical grounding to lead programmes that protect and empower young people. The event signals the country’s dedication to aligning with global safeguarding standards while addressing local needs. By prioritizing training, accountability, and inclusive practices, Lesotho is building a framework that ensures youth programmes are both effective and safe. The outcomes of this initiative will have lasting impacts, strengthening trust between officers and the youth, and contributing to the long-term growth and well-being of the nation’s young population.