The North-West University (NWU) has opened a new Law Clinic building on its Mahikeng Campus, expanding free legal services for qualifying members of the public while strengthening practical legal training for future legal practitioners.
Speaking at the official opening on Thursday, 30 July, North West Deputy Judge President Justice Tebogo Djaje said university law clinics play a critical role in giving effect to Section 34 of the Constitution, which guarantees everyone's right to have legal disputes resolved fairly before a court or another impartial forum.
"We all know that not everyone is able to access the courts with adequate legal representation. It is institutions like university law clinics that act as a bridge between the constitutional promise and our lived realities," she said.
Justice Djaje said the clinic would ensure that people who cannot afford private legal services are not excluded from seeking justice while exposing law students to the realities of legal practice and public service.
"The Law Clinic does not only provide legal assistance to the indigent but also provides an opportunity for law students to get exposure to the realities of our communities and the expectations of the legal profession they are about to enter," she said.
She called on the legal profession, judiciary and other stakeholders to continue supporting university law clinics to advance practical legal education and constitutional values.
Serving society
Dr Joe Molete, deputy vice-chancellor for student life, transformation, people and culture with the assigned function of the Mahikeng Campus,, said the new facility reflects the university's commitment to serving society through teaching, learning and community engagement.
"The Law Clinic demonstrates that the university's responsibility extends beyond the classroom by ensuring that legal education directly benefits the communities we serve."
The clinic, which has served communities since 1983, combines legal education with community service. Under the supervision of admitted attorneys, final-year LLB students interview clients, prepare legal documents, manage case files and gain courtroom exposure while providing free legal assistance to members of the public who qualify on the basis of a means test.
Representing the local community, Kgosi Phenyo Motshegare welcomed the new facility, saying it would improve access to legal services for vulnerable residents.
"This facility is well positioned to provide access to local communities who are in need of quality legal services. It is a valuable asset that we will fully utilise to deal with legal challenges faced by our vulnerable people," he said.
He added that the partnership between the traditional authority, the university and the Law Clinic would strengthen access to justice and deepen the relationship between the institution and surrounding communities.
The new building provides dedicated consultation rooms, expanded teaching facilities and improved workspaces for students and staff. It is expected to enhance both the quality of legal education and the delivery of free legal services to indigent and marginalised communities across the North West Province.
North West Deputy Judge President Justice Tebogo Djaje with the director of Law Clinic, Simon Rasikhalela
Video: https://youtu.be/oNDsL6sc1hM
