The Chief Financial Officer of the Lesotho Communications Authority (LCA), Mr. Mangangole Tsikinyane, has called on young Basotho to transition from being passive consumers of technology to active creators and innovators in the digital economy.
Mr. Tsikinyane made the remarks during the opening of the Young and Innovation Forum, held on the side-lines of the 64th Council Meeting of the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) and the Commonwealth Digital Roadshow.
However, he stressed the need for enhanced efforts to equip young Basotho with the necessary skills to compete effectively on the global stage.
“The goal of this roadshow is to move beyond strategy and ensure that our young creatives know how to use online platforms, artificial intelligence and data to transform their work and access international markets,” he said.
Mr. Tsikinyane described the forum as an important platform to inspire action, urging participants to fully utilize opportunities presented by digital transformation.
He pointed to exhibitions showcased at the event as clear evidence of the growing potential among young Basotho innovators.
He further challenged the youth to rethink their relationship with technology, cautioning against a culture of passive consumption.
“We have become consumers of technologies that were not designed with us in mind. It is time to move away from that mindset and become architects of our own digital future,” he said.
Mr. Tsikinyane also highlighted the importance of inclusivity, stating that no Mosotho should be left behind in the digital revolution.
He cited initiatives such as the CTO Academy, which aim to equip young people with essential skills in areas including digital policy, cybersecurity and innovation.
He encouraged participants to actively engage with industry experts attending the forum.
“Network, collaborate and seek knowledge. The insights you gain here can shape your future,” he said.
He echoed sentiments expressed by government leaders that the energy and fresh ideas of young people are key to driving Lesotho’s digital economy.
The Young and Innovation Forum forms part of ongoing efforts to position Lesotho as a digitally inclusive and innovation-driven economy through partnerships under the Commonwealth platform.
Source: Lesotho News Agency [LENA]
