By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU -In a move that signals Lesotho’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development, the Ministry of Energy hosts a three-day National Academy workshop for clean technology innovators, fostering fertile ground for creativity, collaboration, and innovation in Lesotho’s burgeoning clean energy sector.
Through this workshop, the Ministry of Energy nurtures the next generation of Lesotho’s cleantech pioneers, empowering participants with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to bring their groundbreaking ideas to life, helping to forge a brighter, more sustainable future for the nation.
Minister of Energy, Prof. Nqosa Mahao’s reference to the objective of the National Academy workshop highlights a concerted effort to bridge the gap between innovative technological advancements in the cleantech sector and the individuals who are pivotal in driving these innovations forward—being cleantech innovators and mentors.
The workshop provides a comprehensive platform for familiarizing participants with emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in clean technology. By inviting cleantech innovators, the workshop serves as a crucial educational forum where they can share their advancements, challenges, and solutions with one another. This peer-to-peer exchange of knowledge fosters collaboration thus sparking new ideas that are essential for driving sustainable practices and reducing environmental impact.
Furthermore, the involvement of mentors is equally significant. These experienced individuals provide valuable insights and guidance to newer innovators, mentoring them on navigating the complexities of the cleantech landscape. Through the dialogue, the workshop not only elevates the understanding of clean technologies among participants but also cultivates a supportive community.
Prof. Mahao’s comments regarding His Majesty King Letsie III campaigns in other countries for energy highlight an approach to addressing energy challenges on a broader scale. This is through active engagement in discussions that promote energy solutions internationally.
His Majesty King Letsie III raises awareness about Lesotho’s energy needs also making a call to actionable collaborations and partnerships for the benefit of Lesotho.
This international advocacy is a strategic move that positions Lesotho as a proactive participant in global energy conversations thus attracting and securing foreign interest and investment.
In this context, Prof. Mahao’s emphasis on the notion that “skills develop capital” speaks to the importance of human capital in driving economic growth and innovation, especially in the energy sector.
Developing skills within the workforce—whether through education, training, or mentorship—ultimately leads to enhanced capabilities to attracting investment, creating jobs, and fostering sustainable economic development. This highlights the interconnectedness between skill development and capital formation, underlining the foundation for economic.
In a nation primed for a greener tomorrow, innovation is at the heart of Lesotho’s sustainable development engine – with an ambitious target of 35% renewable energy and a 10% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Lesotho is poised to revolutionize its energy landscape while creating new economic opportunities and a cleaner, healthier future for all.
Harnessing the power of Lesotho’s rugged terrain and abundant sunshine, the nation is embarking on a bold journey towards energy independence.
One of the winners of the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP) 2023, Mrs. Mats’episo Majoro from Mahlaseli Energy emphasizes the importance of active participation in one’s business as, “a key to success.”
This advice underscores the notion that being deeply involved in day-to-day operations, decision-making, and strategic planning significantly enhances entrepreneurial understanding of the business environment. Engaging directly with the operations of the organization enables individuals to identify opportunities and challenges more effectively.
She further elaborates on the value of collaboration, noting how her experiences have taught her the importance of creating sustainable networks and thus collaborations in the industry. Collaborations lead to innovative solutions, collective insight, and transformative partnerships.
By interacting with peers, mentors, and industry experts, entrepreneurs secure access to a wealth of effectively applicable knowledge and experience thus broadening contextual perspective and strategies.
In addition to these insights, she advocates for the use of regular spreadsheet as a practical tool for managing time and tasks effectively. This systematic approach allows business owners to track progress.
The three-day National Academy workshop served as a reminder of the transformative potential of clean technology, fostering the seeds of ingenuity that will one day blossom into a greener Lesotho.