A group photo of the UNIVEN Law Clinic team (students, mentors, and lecturers)
The University of Venda (UNIVEN) Law Clinic has once again showcased the excellence of its Clinical Legal Education (CLE) programme, emerging as the overall winner at the Intervarsity Clinical Legal Education Competition hosted by North-West University’s Potchefstroom Campus. UNIVEN’s outstanding performance saw the institution claim first place in the moot court competition while also producing the Best Speaker of the Tournament, a remarkable double achievement that highlights the strength of the Faculty of Management, Commerce and Law’s commitment to developing competent, practice-ready legal professionals.
Representing UNIVEN was a team of four final-year LLB students from the Law Clinic: Nyasha Mabuwa, Ndivhuwo Khangale, Thabang Mangoedi and Gundo Muhlongo.
Mr Nyasha Vonai Mabuwa receiving the Best Speaker award
Mr Mabuwa was awarded Best Speaker, while the team secured the overall championship title, making UNIVEN the only participating university to win both categories in the competition.
The team was led, mentored and supervised by Mr Ndivhudzannyi Masindi, Head of the UNIVEN Law Clinic and the initiator of UNIVEN’s participation in the competition, alongside CLE practical lecturers, Ms Tiyani Mashimbye and Ms Rotenda Matsenene, whose guidance and support contributed significantly to the team’s success.
This year’s moot court challenge focused on a complex constitutional and human rights law matter, requiring participants to examine the constitutional validity of the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act 92 of 1996 and related legislative provisions. Students were tasked with critically analysing whether South Africa’s legal framework achieves an appropriate constitutional balance between the rights of the biological father, the bodily autonomy and dignity of the pregnant woman, and the best interests of the child.
Through their arguments, competitors engaged with fundamental constitutional principles, including equality, dignity, and bodily autonomy, demonstrating the importance of legal education that equips students with the skills to navigate complex legal questions and contribute meaningfully to society.
UNIVEN’s victory reflects the University’s continued dedication to excellence in legal education, experiential learning, and preparing graduates who are not only academically capable but also ready to serve as ethical and skilled legal practitioners.
The University of Venda congratulates the UNIVEN Law Clinic team on their outstanding achievement at the Intervarsity Clinical Legal Education Competition. Their remarkable victory and commitment to excellence continue to make the University proud and inspire future generations of legal professionals.
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