LocationsLesotho holds its first STEAM conference, in partnership with UNDP
April 30, 2024
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) fields are playing an increasingly significant role in shaping the future of development and the future of work. The core feature of STEAM is the use of science, mathematical, technical, art, and engineering knowledge to solve societal problems and providing innovative solutions to global issues. The demand for workers in STEAM fields has increased, and it is expected to grow even faster in the future, with the prediction that work prospects in the industry will rely on STEAM skills. It is estimated that 97 million new jobs may emerge, while 85 million jobs may be obsolete due to the rapid changes in the labor market.
With the fast-changing technological trends, Lesotho is lagging on STEAM capabilities and ranks very low on innovativeness under the Global Competitiveness Index. As of 2022, only 2% of all graduates from tertiary education in Lesotho are from the STEAM stream and of that minute proportion, even fewer are women. To ensure that Lesotho does not lag any further behind, UNDP Lesotho in partnership with the Ministry of Information, Communication, Science, technology & Innovation and the Ministry of Gender, Youth & Social Development launched the STEAM initiative, culminating in holding of the first Lesotho STEAM Conference. The STEAM initiative aims at strengthening local innovation and technological capabilities, enhancing effective collaboration between government, academia, industry, and society, and mobilizing local and grassroots innovations for sustainable development. Meanwhile the STEAM Conferenceidentified and mobilized innovators across the country.
To make sure to involve everyone, youth cycled to the most remote parts of the country to reach those media does not reach. Over 600 youth submitted applications, from which the best 100 innovators were selected to participate a bootcamp through which they built their business pitches. The best 30 were then invited to present their ideas before a panel of adjudicators, private sector, development partners and the public to select the best 15 candidates. The top 5 were further awarded with an opportunity to attend the 2023 Africa Youth Connekt Summit in Kenya last November.
Beyond the competition, the STEAM initiative opened doors for collaboration among innovators, and we saw craft, environmental sustainability and inclusion co-exist. Together, the stories of the innovators threaded a narrative of passion, innovation, and social impact, shaping a vibrant arts industry in Lesotho, where dreams are woven into vibrant careers, one idea at a time.
STEAM Conference, Lesotho, 2023
Amongst them, Rethabile Lesenyeho, a young man from Ha Bati, Saka-holo in Semonkong, who has a passion for weaving deeply rooted in his childhood experiences surrounded by Moseha ( Merxmuellera) grass used for diverse purposes. The young man graced the STEAM Conference with his beautiful and well-crafted hats and baskets. .
He is indeed testament to the transformative power and impact that the STEAM initiative aims to achieve. Through the initiative, Lesenyeho not only achieved remarkable milestones in building his innovation but also became a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs across the country. His journey reflects resilience and determination, inspiring others like Ikopeleng Raboro, whose career aspirations were transformed by Lesenyeho's mentorship.
At 34-year-old, Lesenyeho's journey, propelled by the STEAM conference, took a new turn as he was offered the opportunity to seamlessly transition from being an solo small-scale entrepreneur to partnering with retail giants like Woolworths. His work, infused with an authentic Lesotho touch, became a highlight in Woolworths stores in Maseru during the 2023 festive season and Lesenyeho’s artifacts became planet-friendly and innovative Christmas wrappings made out of the traditional grass, heralding his cultural heritage.
Being amongst the top 15 finalist at the STEAM conference, Lesenyeho was invited as a lecturer at the Lesotho Agricultural College in Maseru, and invited UNDP at his lecture as a grateful recognition of the support he has received.
He has also recently been awarded a scholarship to attend a seminar on Tourism Building for English-Speaking African Countries in Beijing, sponsored by The People's Republic of China in the Kingdom of Lesotho.
Moliehi Lekhooa was another talented innovator spotlighted during the STEAM Conference. She focuses on the use of recycled waste materials but also strongly advocates for the inclusion of people with disabilities, breaking down communication barriers and emphasizing the need for policies and reforms to prioritize inclusion across all sectors. During the conference, Ms. Lekhooa had an opportunity to showcase her talent as a translator and oral/sign language interpretor, which opened new doors on a brighter future. Indeed, after being noticed at the conference, she became an official interpreter. Ms. Lekhooa advocates for inclusive policies and reforms that are intersectional recognizing and accommodating the diverse needs of people (with emphasis on youth) living with disability. Further, she has offered her services to ensure that braille and sign language would be incorporated into the next STEAM conference. Her passion for inclusive practices and environmental sustainability aligns perfectly with the ethos of STEAM, contributing to a more diverse, accessible, and vibrant society in Lesotho.
With these amazing achievements by young innovators and entrepreneurs it was unanimously decided to hold the STEAM initiative annually. So, see you next year to discover more innovators passionate about STEAM!
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