Gweru, Zimbabwe – 23 March 2026: Midlands State University (MSU) hosted a blended seminar aimed at equipping law students with essential arbitration skills for modern legal practice.
Arbitration is a key form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that offers a more efficient, flexible and less confrontational approach than traditional litigation.
The seminar, themed “Advanced Introduction to Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution Processes,” provided students with a platform to engage with the practical and theoretical dimensions of arbitration.
Opening the event, Chairperson- Department of Public Law, Ms. F. Chakauya emphasised the importance of dispute resolution training for aspiring lawyers.
“Without disputes, there is no arbitration,” she said, underscoring the need for early exposure to ADR concepts.
The seminar featured contributions from Professor Emilia Onyema of the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, who joined virtually, and was moderated by Ugandan Advocate Jeffrey Kaddu, who guided discussions on arbitration agreements, arbitrator selection and the enforcement of arbitral awards.
Professor Onyema highlighted arbitration’s flexibility, noting that procedures can be tailored to suit the needs of the parties involved.
A roundtable discussion facilitated by Mr. Prince Kanokanga of Kanokanga and Partners enabled students to examine the current state of arbitration in Zimbabwe.
Participants also explored challenges and opportunities within the sector, emphasising the need to strengthen arbitration practice nationally.
The seminar reflects Midlands State University’s commitment to developing competent legal practitioners prepared for an evolving legal landscape.