Two exceptional law students from the University of Fort Hare (UFH), Mr Christian Buthelezi and Ms Babalwa Mofokeng, are set to showcase their legal acumen at the highest level as they head to the Constitutional Court for the final legs of the Public Interest Law Moot Court competition.
After progressing through a rigorous series of national rounds, the Fort Hare team earned a coveted place in the Top four, standing shoulder to shoulder with teams from the University of the Witwatersrand, the University of Johannesburg, and UNISA.
The competition, known for its intellectual intensity and real-world legal simulations, gives law students a platform to present arguments before actual Constitutional Court judges. The duo is setting off today (Thursday) for the semi-finals taking place on Friday and the finals to be held on 26 April.
This milestone adds to an impressive list of accolades for Buthelezi and Mofokeng. Both in their third year of LLB studies, they have consistently distinguished themselves in internal and external moot court competitions. Most notably, they recently represented the University at the prestigious Price Media Law Moot Court Competition, where they advanced to the global rounds at Oxford University in London.
“We’re incredibly honoured to be part of this. It’s not just about us – it’s about the legacy of Fort Hare and the potential of students from the Eastern Cape,” said Ms Mofokeng in an interview.
Mr Buthelezi echoed the sentiment, adding, “This opportunity results from hours of preparation, support from our faculty, mentors, and a shared vision of excellence. We are ready for the challenge.”
Their coach, Dr Tapiwa Shumba said the duo’s incredible achievement represents the Faculty’s best opportunity in a long time. “I am incredibly proud and delighted by Christian and Babalwa’s journey. Their top-quality performances, unmatched work ethic, and unwavering determination have brought them this far, and in our eyes, they are already winners. Their perseverance, sharp legal minds, and collaborative spirit have made them exemplary representatives of our Faculty and the values we stand for. It’s been an absolute privilege to coach such dedicated students.”
Expressing his pride and confidence in the pair, the Dean of Law, Professor Mzukisi Njotini, said: They are among our most excellent students in both work ethic and intellect. Without placing undue pressure on them, we believe they have a strong chance of advancing to the finals and making us all proud.”
The Fort Hare community stands behind them as they prepare to present their arguments before South Africa’s top judges.