The North-West University (NWU) has launched a new Law School to Law Firm series aimed at bridging the gap between academic theory and the practical realities of the legal profession.
The initiative, led by the Law Students’ Academic Chapter (LSAC), is designed to equip final-year and postgraduate law students with the tools, insights and confidence needed to enter the workplace.
The first instalment of the series was presented on 15 April 2026 at the Potchefstroom Campus of the NWU, bringing together students and legal professionals for a session focused on mentorship, career guidance and practical industry insights.
The series was conceptualised by LSAC academic officer Ntokozo Duma, who drew from his own experiences as a final-year law student. Faced with uncertainty around career direction, limited vacation work opportunities and incomplete professional profiles, he identified a pressing need to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application.
“Through conversations with my peers I learned that many of us share the same anxieties about transitioning into the workforce,” he says. “This initiative ensures that students leave university not only as scholars of the law, but as confident, practice-ready professionals.”
A highlight of the inaugural session was a presentation by Tshegofatso Nyalungu, manager at Legal Services, whose candid and insightful address resonated strongly with attendees. From the outset, she embraced the vision of the initiative, delivering a talk that moved beyond theory to confront the realities of the legal profession.
“In a saturated legal market, it is no longer enough to simply have an LLB degree. You need to differentiate yourself through practical experience, strategic networking and a well-developed professional profile,” she said.
She also provided a transparent overview of the competitive legal landscape while addressing often-overlooked financial realities. “One of the biggest shocks for young practitioners is the financial burden that comes with the profession. Understanding costs, overheads and sustainability early on is crucial for long-term success,” she explained.
Of particular significance was her discussion of “forced entrepreneurship”, where graduates feel compelled to start their own firms without adequate preparation. Drawing from her career journey, she outlined a strategic approach to private practice, weighing the pros and cons of buying an existing firm versus starting one from scratch.
“Starting your own firm out of necessity rather than readiness can be risky. Entrepreneurship in law should be a strategic decision, not a fallback plan,” she added.
The Law School to Law Firm series is positioning itself as a vital platform in the faculty, addressing a long-standing gap in practical legal training. By exposing students to real-world perspectives and diverse career pathways, the programme equips them to make informed decisions about their future.
Future instalments of the series are expected to expand participation to students across all year groups, with potential collaborations involving other law schools.
Tshegofatso Nyalungu, manager at Legal Services
