SYDNEY MUBAIWA
MIDLANDS BUREAU CHIEF

GWERU – The Midlands State University’s moot team will next month represent Zimbabwe at the 15th Nelson Mandela Human Rights Moot Court Competition World Finals to be held at the United Nations Headquarters, Midtown Manhattan, New York City, United States of America after winning the preliminary rounds which were held virtually from the 20th to 27th of May 2023.
The power house higher and tertiary education institution participated in a group of African universities which include the University of Moi, Kabarak and Strathmore all in Kenya, University of Malawi, University of Lagos, University of Calabar in Nigeria, Universite Catholique, Congo UCC en Single Congo, DRC Official University of Bukau, South Africa’s University of Witwatersrand and Eduvos, Muslim University of Morogoro in Tanzania, Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University and the University of Zimbabwe.
The MSU team headed by Rutendo Chikava and Macdonald Chirima walked away with the top trophy after beating the University of Zimbabwe in the finals.
Their comprehensive understanding of human rights principles, coupled with their ability to articulate compelling legal arguments set them apart from the competition.
Assistant Lecturer in the Law Faculty and the team’s coach, Ntandoyenkosi Moyo expressed his immense pride in the achievement of the students.
He said their success is a testament to their tireless dedication and regorus preparation as future legal practitioners.
“The achievement of being ranked in the top 24 universities in the World speaks volumes and accredits the level of stellar performance our university has been synonymous with over the last decade,” he said.
He said the highly anticipated Geneva event will provide them with a unique opportunity to engage in spirited debates, exchange ideas and gain invaluable experience in an international legal forum.
“ Standing as a shining example of Midlands State University’s indomitable spirit and dedication to excellence in legal education, the success of MSU Law School students in the competitions is not only a cause for celebration within the University community but also a source of inspiration for aspiring law students across the country,”he said.
Zimbabwean Universities especially the Midlands State University has over the years become well known at participating in moot competitions.
Named in honor of the renowned South African leader and Human Rights Advocate, the Nelson Mandela Human Rights Moot Court Competition, has been a platform for aspiring legal minds to demonstrate their expertise in international human rights law.
The competition encourages students to delve into complex legal issues, engage in rigorous research, and present their arguments in a simulated court setting.