UNIVEN Launches Historic Law Alumni Association in Pretoria

The University of Venda (UNIVEN) marked a historic milestone on Saturday, 23 August 2025, with the official launch of its Law Alumni Association at Protea Hotel Fire and Ice, Menlyn, Pretoria. This landmark occasion brought together judges, magistrates, legal practitioners, government officials, alumni, and distinguished stakeholders to celebrate UNIVEN’s legal legacy, reconnect its graduates, and strengthen partnerships that will shape the future of legal space.

The launch featured keynote remarks and insightful discussions on alumni engagement, mentorship, and professional growth. When delivering his address on The Role of Alumni in Supporting the University of Venda’s Mandate, UNIVEN Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Bernard Nthambeleni, emphasised the pivotal role of alumni in advancing the University’s mission of producing graduates who are locally relevant and globally competitive. He highlighted alumni as influential advocates, mentors, and partners who bridge theory with practice, while also opening doors for internships, research collaborations, and employment opportunities.

He emphasised the pivotal role of alumni as influential advocates, trusted mentors, and strategic partners who connect academic theory with real-world practice, while also unlocking pathways to internships, collaborative research, and career opportunities. He further encouraged alumni to extend financial support through scholarships, infrastructure development, and research, underscoring accountability and good governance in the use of resources.

Mr Nkosana Francois Mvundlela, President of the Law Society of South Africa and the Black Law-yers Association, delivered a powerful keynote address. As an accomplished alumnus of UNIV-EN’s School of Law, he urged fellow graduates to take pride in their institution’s legacy of produc-ing influential legal professionals despite its humble beginnings.

He highlighted the critical role of alumni in shaping South Africa’s legal landscape, while also ac-knowledging the challenges faced by young lawyers, including limited opportunities for articles, inadequate resources, and poverty. He called on alumni and black lawyers to build resilient, col-laborative law firms, support rural-based practitioners, and leverage government empowerment policies effectively. Over and above that, Mr Mvundlela emphasised dignity, unity, and pride in their alma mater, encouraging graduates to carry UNIVEN’s name with honour and continue contributing to the growth of the legal fraternity.

Mr Sylvester Motadi, President of UNIVEN Convocation, opened the event by challenging conven-tional ideas of “network connectivity,” encouraging alumni to reimagine their role beyond simple association to one of critical engagement and thought leadership. Mr Motadi highlighted that this launch was not just a formal event, it was a gathering that will make sure that Law students and graduates are mentored empowered for this country to be a better place. “This chapter will also assist in giving back to the needy.” He thanked the University management for their unwav-ering support of Convocation.

The University Registrar, Dr Joel Baloyi, explained the purpose and background of the initiative, noting how the idea drew inspiration from the Agriculture Alumni Association. As a two-time UNIVEN graduate, Dr Baloyi emphasised the importance of reunion, collective growth, and con-nection between the University and its graduates.

In a thought-provoking address, Prof Lonias Ndlovu, Director of the School of Law, presented A Framework for Engagement of Alumni in School of Law Pedagogical, Research, Practical Train-ing and Work Readiness Initiatives. He highlighted gaps in mentorship, practical exposure, and student funding, calling for structured alumni involvement in teaching, curriculum review, moot courts, mentorship, and funding support. His ambitious plan to secure articles for all final-year LLB students through alumni partnerships received strong applause.

The electoral proceedings, facilitated by Dr Baloyi, formalised the launch of the Association and saw the election of the Law Alumni Association Executive Committee, led by Adv Michael Netshiavha as Chairperson. In his acceptance remarks, Adv Netshiavha underscored the chapter’s commitment to mentorship, professional development, and fostering lifelong connections.

Congratulatory remarks were extended by Messrs Pila Selomo and Itani Nematandani, both dis-tinguished alumni of UNIVEN. They commended the newly elected structure of the Law Alumni Association and urged its members to uphold the values of the University by serving as exem-plary ambassadors.
The President of Convocation also shared a message of the way forward on behalf of the Deputy President of Convocation, Mr Rudzani Mushweu, who reaffirmed that the new chapter would serve as a hub for professional support, mentorship programmes, seminars, scholarships, and community contributions.

In his closing remarks, Prof Barwa Kanyane, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management, Com-merce and Law, expressed gratitude to all attendees, the Vice-Chancellor, keynote speaker, alumni, and sponsors, while commending the organising committee for delivering a well-planned and widely publicised event.
The launch of the Law Alumni Association is a strategic milestone for UNIVEN. Held in Pretoria to maximise participation, the launch reflects the University’s vision of building strong national networks with its graduates. Through this platform, UNIVEN aims to unlock mentorship, spon-sorships, collaborative research, and professional opportunities that will directly benefit current law students and advance the University’s mission of shaping socially responsible, impactful, and globally competitive legal professionals.

Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811