News

The University of Botswana Law Society (UBLS) marked a significant milestone this past Saturday with the successful hosting of its inaugural 1st and 2nd Year Family Law Moot Court Competition at the High Court of Botswana.

The event brought together aspiring legal minds in a display of advocacy, research and courtroom skill, with first-year students emerging as standout performers. In a remarkable performance, three first-year teams advanced to the semi-finals, signaling a promising future for the next generation of legal practitioners.

The competition also showcased newly acquired legal regalia, a privilege granted to the current UBLS administration, “Above The Bar,” through the support of premium sponsors Monthe Marumo & Co and Heroes Arms Holdings, along with contributions from several individual donors. Additional support came from a range of organisations including IDEAS Globally, Ramalepa Attorneys, Orate Africa, Van Schaik Bookstore, Teemane Oratory Academy, the LLB Class of 2015 and Botswana Post, whose contributions were influential in the event’s success.

In a move aimed at bridging academic learning with practical experience, UBLS, in collaboration with Monthe Marumo & Co, will provide finalists with structured exposure to legal practice. This includes opportunities to engage with live cases, conduct practical legal research and present their findings in professional settings.

Top honors in the competition were awarded to Aratwa Hendrick, who was named Best Oralist while Portia Seokwang and Lindiwe Mhlanga received the award for Best Memorials. The final round featured an impressive contest between Sophie Stone, Joshua Lesiapeto, Felix Eshima and Katlo Dipeba. Ultimately, Katlo Dipeba and Felix Eshima emerged as the overall winners, earning litigation bags, medals and certificates for their achievement.

The event was judged by a notable panel of legal professionals from various institutions whose expertise and mentorship were praised by organisers. UBLS President, Mr Henry Arthur, expressed deep appreciation to the judges for their role in nurturing young legal talent. He also gave special recognition to the Moot Court Organising Committee with particular praise for coordinator, Waona Segaetsho, whose leadership was instrumental in bringing the inaugural event to execution.

The success of the competition signals a strong start for what UBLS hopes will become a cornerstone event in its academic calendar, fostering excellence in advocacy among Botswana’s future lawyers.