Maseru, May 20 – – – More than 1,300 Basotho who completed Trade Test assessments were on Tuesday awarded certificates in an initiative aimed at improving employment opportunities locally and abroad.
Speaking during the certificate awarding ceremony held at the Lesotho Opportunities Industrialization Centre (LOIC), the Minister of Education and Training, Professor Ntoi Rapapa, congratulated participants for their perseverance and determination in obtaining the Trade Test certificates. He also rewarded the top 10 achievers using his personal funds.
Prof. Rapapa said the Trade Test qualification is recognised across SADC countries and continues to create employment opportunities for Basotho beyond Lesotho’s borders.
He revealed that during a previous security trade assessment involving 100 participants, two had already secured employment abroad.
The minister further indicated that government is working to identify more employment opportunities outside the country for individuals who have completed Trade Tests.
According to Prof. Rapapa, the qualification is already recognised by the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA), while discussions are underway with construction companies to further recognise the certification.
He also stated that the ministry is considering including Interior Design and Hospitality in future Trade Test assessments, noting that the sectors are equally important in creating employment opportunities.
In an interview with the agency, Industrial Training Manager in the Department of Technical and Vocational Training, Mr. Tumelo ‘Mota, said the initiative is intended to assist disadvantaged individuals, including school dropouts and people with practical skills but lacking formal qualifications.
Mr. ‘Mota explained that the Trade Test certification would help ensure such workers are formally recognised and protected from exploitation through low wages.
Meanwhile, Executive Director Mr. Kopano Metsing said a total of 1,303 participants were awarded Trade Test certificates this year.
Mr. Metsing urged graduates to work with honesty, loyalty and professionalism while continuing to improve their skills in line with advancing technology. He also cautioned against alcohol abuse in the workplace, particularly in technical and mechanical fields.
One of the graduates, Mr. Mathealira Letsie, told the Agency that obtaining the Trade Test certificate would help him register his construction company.
He said the qualification serves as an upgrade to the certificate he already holds and expressed excitement about being able to establish his own company.
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