Minister of Trade, Industry and Business Development Mokhethi Shelile says the media has a crucial role to play in shaping public understanding and national dialogue on subjective issues.
Shelile said this yesterday during a workshop to conscientise the media on the work of the Lesotho Standards Institution (LSI).
The LSI’s main role is to develop standards, strengthen testing services, offer certification and promote quality practice in products and services.
Shelile noted that one of his ministry’s strategic objectives is to gain sustainable market access forproducts and services, particularly internationally.It was therefore, important for the media to befully informed about such initiatives.
“We count on the media’s partnership to champion adoption of quality management practices that will enhance competiveness, drive innovation and strengthen the economy,” he pointed out.
He stated that Lesotho’s quality infrastructure including standardisation, testing, certificate and accreditation system is still in its early stages of development.
This presents a significant challenge, hence the government has made strides towards establishing the LSI facility.
“The current infrastructure remains inadequate to fully support the industry and business sectors in the way it is expected,” Shelile added.
