Young Leaders Take the Stage in National Children’s Parliament Simulation Session

A wave of youthful energy and determined voices swept through Lesotho’s National Assembly yesterday during the National Children’s Parliament Simulation Session, where children took center stage to discuss pressing national issues and champion their rightful place in national planning and budgeting.

The session brought together a passionate group of young leaders and top government officials, united in one goal: ensuring that children are not only seen but heard and considered in every corner of policymaking. Speaker of the National Assembly, Rt. Honourable Tlohang Sekhamane, welcomed the young parliamentarians with a heartfelt message on the value and responsibility that comes with participating in democratic processes. He reminded them that parliament is more than a chamber of debate—it is a space of service and a platform for shaping the country’s future.

Representing the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Information, Communication, Science, Technology and Innovation Honourable Nthati Moorosi praised the children’s confidence and clarity. She emphasized that platforms like this help government leaders understand children’s needs directly and affirmed the importance of engaging youth in national decisions, especially when it involves resource allocation.

Minister of Gender, Youth and Social Development Hon. Pitso Lesaoana echoed this sentiment, commending the participants for their thoughtful contributions and assuring them that more opportunities for dialogue and engagement would follow.

Her Royal Highness Princess Senate Mohato Seeiso addressed the assembly with a message that balanced progress with a call to action. While she acknowledged that Lesotho has made significant strides in child-focused legislation and social programmes, she urged continued efforts in addressing key issues in education, healthcare, social protection, and digital safety. She called on participants to channel their focus toward safeguarding vulnerable children and tackling the growing risks children face online.

Also in attendance was UN Resident Coordinator Ms Amanda Khozi Mukwashi, who applauded the active participation of the youth. She highlighted the untapped potential of young people to address real-world challenges and noted that their ideas and energy are critical to building a resilient and inclusive future.

The National Children’s Parliament Simulation Session served as a powerful reminder that children are not just future leaders—they are present voices that matter today. Their insights and dreams are essential to crafting policies that are inclusive, forward-looking, and grounded in lived realities.