About Us

The Lesotho Students Association at the University of Cape Town (LeSA-UCT) has existed for more than 15 years. Its purpose was to provide a sense of belonging and foster unity among Basotho students at UCT.

LeSA-UCT serves as a platform where members can connect, share experiences, and support each other in navigating the challenges of university life. The association has become a cornerstone for preserving and celebrating Basotho heritage, while also fostering cultural exchange with other student communities.

The LeSA franchise extends across other South African universities, and you can see some of our sister associations below.

Our mission is to create a home away from home for Basotho students at UCT by:

• Fostering Unity: Building a strong and supportive community for Basotho students.

• Celebrating Culture: Promoting and showcasing Basotho heritage through events and programs.

• Providing Support: Assisting students academically, socially, and emotionally during both good and challenging times.

• Encouraging Growth: Helping new and prospective students transition to university life and navigate their academic journeys.

• Social Responsibility: Engaging in voluntary community development projects that positively impact South Africa and Lesotho.

Through these initiatives, LeSA-UCT strives to enrich the university experience for its members and foster a legacy of cultural pride and social impact.

With a vibrant community of over 100 annual members and a network of 200+ alumni, LeSA-UCT continues to grow and create lasting impact. We take pride in our achievements, which include the following:

• Mentorship Programs: Guiding students academically and professionally through mentorship initiatives.

• Repository of Academic Support Material: Providing a centralized collection of academic resources to aid members in their studies.

• Postgraduate Workshop Training: Offering training sessions and workshops designed to assist postgraduate students in navigating their research journey effectively.

• Outreach Programs: Collaborating with other LeSA chapters across South Africa to assist high schools with career guidance and university application processes.

• NMDS Liaison: Acting as a bridge between UCT and Lesotho's National Manpower Development Secretariat (NMDS).

• Cultural Experiences: Hosting events that celebrate and promote Basotho culture.

• Collaborations: Partnering with UCT's International Academic Programmes Office (IAPO) and other societies for shared experiences.

• Recreational Activities: Organising events to foster relaxation and camaraderie among members.

We are immensely proud of these accomplishments and remain committed to supporting our members and the wider community.