Maseru — National University of Lesotho (NUL) has, today launched a new Bachelor's Degree programme of Science in Physical Education with the intention of improving sports in the country.

The programme will, for now, accommodate only 20 learners including those living with different kinds of disability.

Speaking at the event Minister of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture, Mr. Thabo Mputi said the celebration is the introduction of an academic qualification and an investment in the transformation of sport in the country.

He said Lesotho is heavily indebted to the nation of Cuba for their huge contribution in sending a team of Physical Education experts to NUL to spearhead the initial conception of this programme, providing technical and content advisory in ensuring Lesotho gets to a stage where sport is not just a hobby but a professional enterprise.

He added that sport has always occupied a special place in the lives of Basotho as it brings people together, inspires national pride and provides a platform through which the young people can demonstrate their talent, discipline and determination.

‘’When our athletes compete locally, regionally and internationally, they do more than pursue personal achievement. They carry the hopes and aspirations of a nation. They become ambassadors of Lesotho and demonstrate the resilience, courage and excellence that define the Basotho spirit.’’

Mr. Mputi also noted that the world of sport has changed significantly, saying sport is no longer viewed only as competition and recreation; it has developed into a professional sector with opportunities across coaching, athlete development, sports science, fitness and wellness, sports administration, performance analysis, event management, sports entrepreneurship and research.

Mr. Thabo Tsiki, Director Sports reiterated that the programme is a basis that provides fundamental skills and development at the earliest stages of a child and it is expected to help the country to develop athletes as early as the age of six.

He said this became a success as a result of collaborations between Lesotho and other countries which have the necessary expertise and those that excel in sports and the goal is to expose Basotho to international talent.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Primary and Tertiary Education, Ms. Sekhotseng Adam said at this stage it cannot be guaranteed whether or not the learners will be sponsored, but said it is expected that there will be sponsorship as soon as everything has fallen into place.

She highlighted that the arrangement will need the university and the National Manpower Development Secretariat (NMDS) to do what must be done going forward.

Dr. Maboi Mphunyane, Head of Science Education explained that only 20 learners will be admitted into the programme with the purpose of manageability as it is still at the infancy stage. He also mentioned that it is a four year programme, however, those who already hold a diploma will be allowed to start at second year.

He noted that it is designed for those who want to take coaching as a career and various other disciplines that fall under physical science.

NUL entered into a joint venture with a number of organisations that include United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), Lesotho National Olympic Committee (LNOC) and Lesotho Sports and Recreational Commission (LSRC).

Image by NUL