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National University of Lesotho
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The National University of Lesotho (NUL) is the premier institution of higher learning in the Kingdom of Lesotho, with its historic main campus situated in the valley of Roma. Its roots date back to April 1945, when it was established as Pius XII Catholic College by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate. Originally founded to provide higher education for African students, it has since grown from a small religious college into a comprehensive national university. The campus is notable for its serene environment and beautiful sandstone architecture, which blends harmoniously with the surrounding rocky outcrops and mountains. Over the years, NUL has been instrumental in shaping the nation's leadership and intellectual landscape, producing many of the country's prominent politicians, lawyers, and educators. For visitors, the university represents a beacon of progress and heritage, offering a glimpse into the country's educational journey and its commitment to developing local expertise within an easy on the eye setting in the Roma Valley.
- Location: Lesotho
- Nearby: Saint Michaels (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 20 | 18 | 14 | 11 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 14 | 17 | 18 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 102 | 92 | 74 | 63 | 22 | 21 | 8 | 22 | 19 | 61 | 84 | 103 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The NUL campus is generally open to the public for walking and exploring the historic buildings from the outside. Access to specific faculty buildings or the library may require prior permission or student identification.
Typical hours
The university grounds are usually accessible during daylight hours, though academic buildings operate on a typical Monday to Friday schedule. It is best to visit during regular term-time office hours.
Photography
Photography of the historic architecture and open campus grounds is usually permitted for personal use. It is polite to ask for permission before taking close-up pictures of students or staff members.
Time needed
A leisurely walk around the main campus and its older historic sections usually takes about one to two hours. If you plan to engage with local events or cafeterias, allocate a bit more time.
Combine with
A visit to the university can easily be combined with exploring the surrounding Roma valley and its historic Catholic missions. Nearby hiking trails offer excellent views of the mountainous landscape.
Getting there
Roma is located southeast of Maseru and is easily accessible via paved roads using a private vehicle or local minibus taxis. The main entrance is prominent and usually well-signposted from the main road.
Insider tip
Try to visit during the academic semester to experience the lively atmosphere of the campus, but avoid the busy exam periods if you prefer a quieter walk. There are small shops nearby for basic snacks.
Geography
Facts
- The university was founded in 1945 as Pius XII University College.
- The campus spans 200 hectares.
- Approximately 10,000 students enrolled.
- The library holds over 200,000 volumes.
- Offers more than 50 degree programs.
- The main building was inaugurated in 1960.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town National University of Lesotho (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the National University of Lesotho located?
The main campus is located in Roma, about 34 km southeast of Maseru.
Can visitors enter the university campus?
Yes, but visitors often need to register at the main gate.
Are there cafeterias there?
Yes, there are several dining halls and small kiosks on the grounds.
What else is there to see in Roma?
Roma is known for its historic mission stations and beautiful hilly scenery.
When was the university founded?
It was founded in 1945 as Pius XII Catholic University College.
National University of Lesotho: where is it located?
National University of Lesotho is located in Lesotho.
National University of Lesotho: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
National University of Lesotho: why is it worth visiting?
The National University of Lesotho (NUL) is the premier institution of higher learning in the Kingdom of Lesotho, with its historic main campus situated in the valley of Roma.
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History & landmarks
Christ the King High School (Roma)
This Catholic school in Roma is one of the country's most prestigious educational institutions.
Maliele Art
The Maliele rock art site features some of the best-preserved polychrome paintings in western Lesotho.
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Mokema Site
The Mokema site is known for its San rock paintings and as a location for historical meetings of Basotho chiefs.
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Koro-Koro Site
The Koro-Koro site is an important archaeological and historical area with San paintings and early Basotho settlements.
Ha Khotso Rock Paintings
These prehistoric paintings depict scenes from the life of San hunter-gatherers.
Mazenod Catholic Center
The Mazenod Center is a significant religious and administrative hub for the Catholic Church.
Moshoeshoe Airport
The country's only international airport, serving as a key gateway for business travel and air freight transport.
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Makotoko Site
The Makotoko site houses exceptional San rock art depicting contact between different cultures.
Nature
More places
Roma Valley Botanical Site
The Roma Valley hosts remnants of indigenous woodland and a rich variety of plants protected by the National University of Lesotho.
St. Michael's Mission
This historic Catholic mission in Roma was crucial for the development of education in Lesotho.
Bushmans Pass
This pass is located on the edge of the highlands and was historically an important path for travelers moving from the plains to the moun…
Gates of Paradise Pass
A scenic mountain pass near Malealea, known for its expansive views over the lowlands.
National Abattoir
A central facility for the meat processing industry in Lesotho, ensuring national food security and supply.
St Judes
St Jude's is a historic parish that played a vital role in the development of Maseru's outskirts.
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Maloti Foothills
The Maloti foothills form a transition zone between the western lowlands and the high mountain ranges of the interior.
St. Jude Mission
St.