…to strengthen accounting profession
Seithati Motsoeneng
THE Lesotho Institute of Accountants (LIA) and Botho University have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening accounting education, enhancing professional development, and creating stronger career pathways for aspiring accountants.
The partnership, formalised during a signing ceremony at Botho University’s Maseru campus, would seek to align academic training with industry needs while ensuring graduates possessed the technical, ethical and leadership skills required in the profession.
Speaking at the ceremony, Botho University Country Head, Makhosi Hlalele, said the collaboration represented a strategic investment in the future of Lesotho’s accounting profession.
She said the university was committed to producing graduates who not only possessed strong technical competencies but also demonstrated ethical integrity and leadership qualities needed in an increasingly complex global business environment.
“The goal is to equip our learners with a comprehensive skill set that combines technical expertise with ethical integrity and leadership capabilities,” Ms Hlalele said.
“By partnering with LIA, we are fostering an environment where students can develop industry-relevant skills, engage in continuous professional development, and gain exposure to international standards. This is vital for positioning them effectively in the global marketplace.”
LIA Chief Executive Officer, ‘Malisebo Ntlhokoe, welcomed the partnership, saying it reflected a shared commitment to ensuring accounting education remained relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of the profession.
She commended Botho University for aligning its academic programmes with professional standards, saying such collaborations were essential in producing competent accountants capable of supporting national economic growth.
“The partnership between LIA and Botho University reflects our shared vision for developing a sustainable, competent and ethical accounting workforce,” Ms Ntlhokoe said.
“It also demonstrates how institutions can work together to achieve common goals, ultimately contributing to the economic development of our country.”
Under the agreement, the two institutions agreed to collaborate in seven key areas designed to improve the quality and relevance of accounting education.
Among the priority areas was curriculum review and endorsement to ensure academic programmes would remain aligned with current industry trends, international accounting standards and global best practices.
The partnership also sought to promote professional socialisation by exposing students to the accounting profession from an early stage of their academic journey.
A major feature of the agreement would be work-integrated learning and student placements. Through LIA’s network of businesses, government institutions and other organisations, students would gain practical workplace experience to complement their classroom studies.
The initiative would narrow the gap between theory and practice while improving graduates’ employability.
The MoU would also provide for guest lectures by experienced accounting professionals, creating opportunities for students to learn directly from industry practitioners while benefiting from mentorship and professional guidance.
Continuous Professional Development (CPD) programmes would also be expanded, providing ongoing training opportunities for both students and practising accountants to keep pace with changes in the profession.
The remaining areas of cooperation outlined in the agreement would be implemented as part of the institutions’ broader commitment to advancing the accounting profession in Lesotho.
The partnership would be expected to contribute to strengthening the country’s regulatory framework, raising educational standards and preparing accounting professionals capable of competing effectively both regionally and internationally.
