Basotho Students Abroad: Celebrating the Class of 2024.
Nothing warms our hearts like seeing Basotho flourish wherever they are in the world!
We want to take the time to celebrate some Basotho students who just completed academic milestones this year, in different parts of the world! This list is not exhaustive, by no means. Le bangata mme rea le tlotla kaofela! Pursuing a degree while also navigating the highs and the lows of being in a new country is no small feat, we know.
And yet, here you are, you’ve done it! Re motlotlo haholo ka lona!
Thato Katiba, Master of Law (LLM) | LinkedIn
University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
What was it like? My journey in Cambridge was both amazing and challenging. An opportunity to be a member of the prestigious University of Cambridge and Sidney Sussex College afforded me a chance to interact with many scholars from different backgrounds and from all far corners of the world. I learned a lot from these people and I also made long-lasting friendships.
What’s next? I am looking forward to getting into the industry and putting all I learned into practice. My areas of interest are particularly in International Corporate tax, International financial law, International trade, and Corporate Finance.
Tiheli Tiheli, Master of Science (MSc) Architectural Design and History | Instagram
Politecnico di Milano, Italy
What was it like? Ho ne ho le monate ho ithuta ka liemahale tsa Italy, le ho li bonela haufinyane. Litoropo tsa teng li kholo, li tletse ka nalane ea Architecture lefatše ka bophara.
What’s next? Ke lakatsa ho batla mosebetsi hona mona Italy le linaheng tse li ling tse haufi.
Sello Pule, Master of Tourism Management
Harbin University of Commerce, China
What was it like? Good experience and full of challenges.
What’s next? I am going back to my old government job but if any opportunities (short courses, seminars, jobs) come by, I would be more than happy to grab such opportunities.
Boemo Khabo, Master of Engineering (MEng) in Biomedical Engineering | LinkedIn
China Pharmaceutical University, China
What was it like? My dream has always been to become a Biomedical Engineer. I took the long route and started with a BSc in Biotechnology and eventually completed my Masters this year. The journey was long, it was tough and took nothing but sheer perseverance (some blood, sweat and tears too haha) to see it through.
The highlight of my journey was definitely walking across the stage on the graduation day and seeing my names on the graduation certificate. It was absolutely euphoric. Lessons learned; you can do anything you put your mind to, continuously challenge yourself and for me personally, make God the center of everything for His Glory.
What’s next? After 7 years of university, what comes next is rest for the remainder of the year. Time for family, friends and all my loved ones; to reconnect with my home and enjoy whatever life has to offer. Make time for hobbies, maybe find new ones, revisit old ones and find the joy of life again.
Looking forward to advancing my career in the Biomedical/Biotechnology research areas in the new year (2025) and beyond.
Vusi Mashinini, Master of Laws (LLM) | LinkedIn
University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
What was it like? It was an amazing experience. The first time I felt like myself.
What’s next? I’m still figuring things out.
Poloko Leteka, Master of Science (MSc) Architectural Design and History | LinkedIn
Politecnico di Milano, Italy
What was it like? I had an amazing experience even though it wasn’t a smooth journey financially. I also learned quite a lot both academically, and outside the academic realm. Especially when it comes to the thorough understanding and preservation of history.
It would be nice to see more Basotho learn more about architecture beyond just building especially the younger generation. Ke lakatsa hore bana ba Basotho ba ka rutoa ka ‘Architecture’ ho tloha bonyaneng, at least from primary level or high school.
What’s next? The plan is to get work experience in Europe, but I’m currently figuring things out.
Palesa Patience Mofolo, Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance
Punjab College of Technical Education , India
What was it like? It wasn’t easy at all but I just had to put in more and more effort because the deeper you go the harder it gets.
What’s next? School - I want to pursue an MBA and I’m still searching for sponsorships. And my message to all Basotho youth, let’s go to school it’s never too late for you to get your degree. It’s never too late for to break that generational curse, go to school so that you can have a better life. I know we’re all concerned about unemployment rate but things will change, they’ll come around. Go to school so that when an opportunity comes along, you know that you qualify for it.
Dr. Fusi Talasi, PhD in Economics in National Development | LinkedIn
Peking University, China
What was it like? A key lesson from this journey was the importance of adaptability and open-mindedness. Navigating a new educational system requires a significant degree of adaptability and open-mindedness. Educational systems can vary greatly in their teaching methods, assessment styles, and overall approach to learning. When transitioning to a different system, being adaptable is crucial because it allows you to adjust to these new methods and effectively engage with the material. For instance, if the new system emphasizes collaborative learning or a different way of assessing knowledge, flexibility in your approach can help you acclimate and succeed.
A new educational environment often introduces cultural differences that influence how learning is structured and delivered. Open-mindedness is essential in this context, as it helps you appreciate and integrate these diverse perspectives. Embracing different cultural approaches to education not only enhances your learning experience but also broadens your understanding of global practices.
Additionally, different educational systems come with varying expectations regarding student performance and participation. Adaptability enables you to meet these new expectations and navigate any changes in how your progress is evaluated. By being flexible, you can better manage the transition and continue to perform well despite the adjustments required.
Lastly, encountering and overcoming new challenges in a different educational setting often requires creative problem-solving. An adaptable and open-minded approach allows you to explore alternative solutions and tackle obstacles effectively. This resilience is key to making the most of your new educational experience and achieving success in unfamiliar territory
What’s next? A few years ago, I took a leave from my job at Lesotho Defense Force to pursue a personal dream, which I have now fulfilled. I am looking forward to returning to work, but I recognize that my academic journey is still ongoing and not yet finished. Li kholo ntho tse latelang!!!
There are several ways we can support each other. Firstly, networking is essential; sharing job leads, professional contacts, and employment opportunities can be incredibly valuable. Secondly, staying connected and providing encouragement during the uncertain times following graduation can have a significant impact. By remaining engaged and supporting each others goals, we can all improve our chances of success in our new endeavors.
Ntutu Sekonyela, Bachelors in Computer Science | LinkedIn
African Leadership University, Rwanda
What was it like? I got exposed to a lot diversity from students across Africa, people with different points of view, beliefs, and cultures make you look at life from a completely different view. One thing that made me realize that truly we are one people, was hearing a lot people use or refer to the word "ubuntu". That was really surprising and impressive at the same time.
On the tech side, my highlights were the 12 months tech internships across the degree program. Working across different teams taught me productivity, empathy, effective communication, how to avoid work burn out, becoming a team player, shipping quality code to production.
What’s next? I am looking forward to networking and meeting new people in the tech field here at home (Lesotho). I would like to be a developer at Standard Lesotho Bank, but in the future I am looking to branch into entrepreneurship.
Tiisetso Catherine Letsie, Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) | LinkedIn
PCTE Group of Institutes, India
What was it like? It was a fascinating journey. I came across certain obstacles but managed to tackle them and survive through. I also got to meet various people from different cultures and backgrounds as well whilst getting along with them. There was a lot of adaptation involved as well.
What’s next? I’m hoping to do a masters degree probably in another country abroad but should it not work out, another option would be to look for a job and funding also.