Lesotho Teams Up with UAE to Set Up Digital Schools, Aiming at Pioneering Digital Communities

During the World Government Summit (WGS) in Dubai, Dr. Ntoi Rapapa, Minister of Education and Training in Lesotho, underscored the pivotal role of digital transformation in advancing government development and enhancing skills. Dr. Rapapa shared insights into Lesotho's ambitions to integrate digitalisation across various sectors, particularly in education and training. His comments were made in an interview with the Emirates News Agency (WAM) at the WGS, where he lauded the summit as a premier forum for discussing governance, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital education.

Lesotho's commitment to digital education was further evidenced by Dr. Rapapa's announcement of several agreements signed with the United Arab Emirates, focusing on AI, data security, accessibility, monitoring, and security assurance. A notable step in this collaboration is the recent Memorandum of Understanding with the UAE aimed at establishing digital schools in Lesotho. This initiative reflects both countries' dedication to preparing communities for the digital era.

Despite the enthusiasm for digital advancement, Dr. Rapapa acknowledged significant hurdles in Lesotho's journey towards comprehensive digital education. Currently, a mere 5% of the nation's 1,480 primary schools are equipped with digital education facilities. Nevertheless, Dr. Rapapa remains optimistic about overcoming these challenges and bridging the digital divide.

The need for modernisation extends beyond education to government operations at large. Dr. Rapapa noted that only three of Lesotho's 18 ministries currently employ e-governance practices. However, there is a strategic plan to expand digital communication and online services across all ministries within the next two to five years.

Dr. Rapapa concluded with a confident outlook on Lesotho's digital transformation journey. He envisions this shift not only enhancing government efficiency but also improving commercial transactions, thereby driving significant progress for the nation.

With inputs from WAM