From the Lecture-Room to the Courtroom: UKZN Students Put Their Legal Skills to the Test
The John Milton Moot Court room came alive as four University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Law students went head-to-head in the annual Prize Moot Court competition that tested their legal knowledge, confidence, and ability to think on their feet.
The John Milton Moot Court is a simulated courtroom facility at the UKZN School of Law, Pietermaritzburg Campus. The court serves as the physical venue for the Law school’s practical training and appellate advocacy events, as well as the annual Moot Court Final.
The moot court proceedings were heard before Justice Siphokazi Jikela and Justice Ranjiv Nirghin, who serve on the bench of the KwaZulu-Natal High Court.
Professor Freddy Mnyongani, Dean and Head of the Law School at UKZN, congratulated the finalists, adding that mooting is important in preparing students for their careers in Law. “Mooting takes students from the classroom and gives them an opportunity to experience law,” he said.
On the day, two moot court cases were presented by students.
In the first moot, Ms Nonhlanhla Mamba represented the Appellant, Sahara IT Africa, while Ms Kiandra Shawne Singh represented the Respondent, Mr Andile Jali, in a case involving allegations of sexual harassment and unfair dismissal.
In the second moot, Ms Luyanda Nomonde Mjaji represented the Applicant, Thandanani Child Care Centre, while Ms Shrinam Vrajlall represented the Respondent, the Department of Social Development, in a case concerning the constitutionality of the Baby Saver Box and the safe surrender of a newborn baby.
Court Orderly, Mr Dominique Newell, ensured timekeeping.
The judges were impressed by the students’ effort, overall quality of their professional presentation, conduct, and ability to think on their feet; highlighting that these are important skills for legal practitioners who need to respond confidently and effectively under pressure.
They concluded by giving students valuable feedback. Jikela highlighted the importance of presenting arguments clearly, saying, “It is important that you take time in drafting your heads of argument because there can never be a justification for presenting heads of arguments that are not coordinated”.
Nirghin added, “If your heads are well prepared, you have won most of the battle even before entering the court”.
Mamba won the first moot court competition, and Vrajlall won the second.
Professor Darren Subramanien, Head: Business Law discipline at UKZN, concluded the programme with a vote of thanks to all stakeholders. He also commended finalists for their hard work and dedication throughout the eight-month journey.
Author: Neliswa Phungula
Photographer: Tisetso Nhlapo
