Explore publications.

This study aims to explore incubatees’ perceptions of the challenges facing start-ups and entrepreneurs at the National University of Lesotho Innovation Hub. An interpretive, qualitative approach was adopted. Six purposively selected incubatees partook in semi-structured interviews and the data were analysed through content thematic analysis. Delay in disbursement of incubation funds, infrastructure deficits and deficiency of entrepreneurial knowledge were identified as the major constraints as perceived by incubatees. University hubs should ensure that capitation grants are disbursed to the start-ups on time to provide incubateess’ timely preparation of the budgets and purchase of all the required products and hence timely commencement of the incubation process. Lack of essential facilities in the university hub and deficiency of entrepreneurial knowledge may hinder the ability of start-ups to successfully develop. The study results suggest the development of strategies and initiatives to effectively support start-ups in university hubs. Benchmarking from successful experience of regional and international universities innovation hubs on how to effectively manage incubator sponsorship. Implementation of training and development programs to assist start-ups to acquire new skills and stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies. Lastly, investment in contemporary facilities, such as labs, offices and provision of state-of-art resources for incubatees is commended.

The education law and policies in Lesotho assert that all children have a right to education, however, the application of these frameworks have been slow when it comes to education provision for children with intellectual disabilities. This study explores parental perspectives on experiences of provision of education for children with intellectual disabilities in Lesotho. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews with parents of children with intellectual disabilities. The findings indicate that parents immensely valued education for its advantages, however, they were aware of and disappointed with the inequitable provision of education children with intellectual disabilities were offered, leading to lack of participation and dropouts. The study therefore highlights the need to amplify implementation of evidence-based practices that ensure effective access and provision of quality and equitable education for children with intellectual disabilities. Keywords: intellectual disabilities, provision of education, education experiences, parental perspectives, Lesotho

The poultry industry is the fasted growing sub-sector of agriculture in the developing world and this is attributed to several pulling and pushing factors. On the demand side, the issue of urbanisation, income increase and animal protein requirements particularly for chicken has a positive influence on the growth of poultry production. Poultry farming is highly practised in rural households in Lesotho, and it constitutes an important contribution to the development of the rural economy in most developing countries. The poultry industry remains an important sub-sector of agriculture like in many other developing countries and it remains the main source of livelihood for village people and other small-scale farmers in the economy. Many rural communities are keeping poultry as a source of meat and eggs to feed their families, raise income from the surplus and create employment opportunities. However, access to formals markets remains a critical challenge for the farmers. This study examined the socio-economic, market and institutional factors that influenced broiler farmers’ market participation and intensity of participation in the Leribe district in Lesotho. A two-stage sampling technique was employed to select 114 respondents from five villages and the survey data was collected through a structured questionnaire. Heckman's two-stage model was used to analyse factors influencing farmers' market participation and the intensity of market participation. Gender, farmer income, storage access, production experience, extension service, credit access and information access were significant and influenced farmers’ market participation decisions. The study recommends interventions that will increase access and formal market participation.