In a stunning display of legal prowess, the Midlands State University (MSU) Faculty of Law has etched its name in the annals of African legal education by clinching the top spot at the prestigious 33rd Christof Heyns African Human Rights Moot Court Competition.
The event, held from July 22-27, 2024, in Kigali, Rwanda, saw MSU’s students outshine competitors from across the continent.
This remarkable victory marks a watershed moment for Zimbabwean legal education, as MSU becomes the first law school in the nation to secure this coveted title.
The triumph not only cements MSU’s position as a powerhouse in legal education but also showcases the calibre of graduates being nurtured at this premier institution of higher learning.
The winning team, comprised of Watson Tonderai Somerai and Michelle Patricia Chiwanga, under the expert guidance of coach Mr. Claudios Makwara, delivered a performance nothing short of spectacular.
Their legal acumen, oratory skills, and depth of knowledge in human rights law left spectators and judges alike in awe.
“These young legal eagles are national heroes,” declared the Pro-Vice Chancellor for Infrastructure and Campus Development, Dr. G. Manyatera, himself a former Executive Dean of Law.
“They have raised Zimbabwe’s flag to unprecedented heights on the continental stage,” articulated Dr. Manyatera
While MSU has long been a formidable force in regional moot court competitions, this African championship represents a quantum leap in the institution’s achievements.
Organised by the Centre for Human Rights, South Africa, the competition is widely regarded as the most prestigious law school contest on the African continent.
This year’s event drew an impressive array of talent, with 50 Anglophone teams, 9 Francophone teams, and 1 Lusophone team vying for the top honours.
The final round saw MSU, paired with Ebonyi State University Abakaliki from Nigeria, triumph over the formidable duo of the University of Nairobi, Kenya, and Université Thomas Sankara, Burkina Faso.
In response to this momentous achievement, the Acting Executive Dean – Faculty of Law, Dr. A. Mugadza missed no word in highlighting that this African championship is not just a trophy for the cabinet, but a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring legal scholars across the nation.
“This victory is not just a win for MSU, but a testament to the rising standards of legal education in Zimbabwe.
“It underscores the University’s commitment to producing world-class legal professionals equipped to tackle the complex challenges of the 21st century,” said Dr. Mugadza.
As celebrations erupt across the MSU community and beyond, one thing is clear: the future of Zimbabwe’s legal landscape looks brighter than ever, thanks to the brilliant minds being forged at Midlands State University.