24/04/2026
The National University of Lesotho Shines Brightly at the Spelling A Business Africa (SABA) Finals!
On April 10, 2026, the National University of Lesotho (NUL) took centre stage at the Spelling A Business Africa (SABA) Challenge - 1st Tertiary Edition Finals, hosted at the renowned Victory Hall. This remarkable event showcased the prowess and spirit of entrepreneurship among tertiary students throughout Lesotho.
SABA is more than just a competition; it is a transformative initiative designed to cultivate entrepreneurial thinking, hone business communication skills, and ignite innovation among students. By blending advanced business terminology with real-world business pitching exercises, participants are equipped with the essential skills necessary to thrive in today’s dynamic economy.
NUL was impeccably represented by five outstanding students, each contributing unique talents and perspectives that culminated in their participation in the prestigious SABA finals:
Bokang Mpholo (BA Economics, with a Minor in Statistics)
Chakelo Masenkane (MSc Economics)
Katleho John Khemane (BA Sociology)
Lisemelo Grace Mphutlane (BA Economics, with a Minor in Business Administration)
Seapei Evelyn Lesoli (BA Statistics and Demography)
From this remarkable cohort, three exceptional students achieved a place in the Top 10 nationally, affirming their dedication and skill:
Lisemelo Grace Mphutlane
Chakelo Masenkane
Bokang Mpholo
Every finalist in the Top 10 was rewarded with sponsored prizes, including the latest smartphones courtesy of Econet Telecom Lesotho, alongside valuable resources such as the Mohlomi Code of Corporate Governance provided by the Institute of Directors Lesotho.
Outstanding Achievements:
3rd Place: Lisemelo Grace Mphutlane – M50,000
4th Place: Bokang Mpholo – M30,000
The NUL's exceptional performance earned the prestigious title of Best Performing Institution, proudly bringing home the coveted trophy, a testament to the university's commitment to fostering excellence.
Special Category Awards:
Best Feasibility & Viability Business Idea - Lisemelo Grace Mphutlane
Best Sustainable Business Idea - Bokang Mpholo
Most Innovative & Creative Business Idea - Chakelo Masenkane
This extraordinary achievement reflects the unwavering dedication, intelligence, and innovative spirit of NUL students, alongside the university’s steadfast commitment to cultivating the leaders and entrepreneurs of tomorrow. The categories in which our talented students excelled are integral to the Entrepreneurship and New Business Creation program offered by the Faculty of Social Sciences, vividly illustrating the effectiveness of our robust entrepreneurship curriculum at NUL.
Such success could not have been attained without the unwavering guidance and mentorship from a dedicated academic and support team, which includes:
Mr. Lekhooa Matela, Ms. ‘Maletsoela Mahao, Mr. Lekhooa Sesinyi, Dr. Ratakane Maime (Department of Business Administration)
Dr. Leseko Makhetha and Mr. Rorisang Lesaoana (Department of Economics)
Ms. Pulane Mahase (Department of Political and Administrative Studies)
Mrs. ‘Mankopane Lebona (LASED – Business Education Unit)
Mr. Lira Teboho Victor Khalala (NUL Innovation Hub)
NUL stands tall with pride. NUL keeps rising. NUL is at the forefront of leadership. NUL is cultivating the leaders of tomorrow.