The popular annual NWU-Juta Mock Trials competition is back in full force, with last year’s virtual format making way for an in-person competition this year.

“We are very excited to have everyone back in our mock courtroom,” says Adv René Koraan, director of Professional Development and Community Engagement and senior lecturer at the Faculty of Law on the Potchefstroom Campus. She says the competition is an excellent opportunity for second- and third-year students to gain much-needed experience.

The competition kicks off with cross-campus elimination rounds on 28 July. The semi-final is scheduled to take place on 14 August, building up towards the excitement of the finals on 15 August.

René says they are especially excited to have Judge President Ronald Hendricks of the North West High Court and Judge André Petersen presiding over the finals. The event will also be attended by Dr Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU.

This very popular competition is a highlight on the NWU’s event calendar. It celebrated its tenth birthday last year in a virtual courtroom due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Last year’s winners were a combined NWU team of third-year students and it will be riveting to see who takes the crown this year.

Competition promotes practical experience

The NWU-Juta Mock Trial competition is the product of René’s vision. She started the competition in 2011, initially for the Potchefstroom Campus, but since 2014 it has grown into an inter-campus competition. She saw it as an opportunity for second- and third-year students to gain much-needed experience.

“The competition will continue its mission to give law students the opportunity to gain practical experience. Last year more than 140 students participated in the mock trials.”

She says students are eager to learn and to put in the extra work, not just to win the competition, but to be better. “We should never underestimate the impact of such competitions and workshops on the development of young aspiring lawyers,” she concludes.

For more information about this year’s NWU-Juta Mock Trials, phone René at 018 299 4287.