Amos Mpofu, Zimpapers Reporter
SOLUSI University is targeting the establishment of a Faculty of Law within the next 12 to 24 months, in a move that could expand access to legal education in Matabeleland.
The plans were discussed at the university’s inaugural Faculty of Law Indaba held at the institution last week, where academics and professionals explored the practical requirements for establishing the programme.
Solusi University Vice-Chancellor Professor Khumbulani Mpofu said the proposed faculty would complement the university’s existing programmes and respond to the need for legal expertise across different professions.
“We want to establish the inaugural Law School in the southern region of Zimbabwe, which covers the Matabeleland regions, at Solusi University within the next 12 to 24 months,” he said.
Prof Mpofu said the university already trains students in fields such as business, accounting and marketing, which frequently require legal expertise.
The proposed Faculty of Law is expected to place emphasis on legal ethics, professional conduct and justice.
Prof Mpofu said the university also intended to incorporate its broader approach to developing students academically and socially into the programme.
Professor Thuli Madonsela of Stellenbosch University welcomed the initiative and urged Solusi University to place good governance, ethics and social justice at the centre of the proposed law school’s academic and institutional framework.
Dr Brian Moyo of Corporate Chaplaincy Services Zimbabwe said the development could improve access to legal education in the region.
He noted that there is currently no law school in either Matabeleland North or Matabeleland South, or in Bulawayo.
“…aspiring law students in Matabeleland will now have an opportunity to pursue legal studies closer to home,” he said.
Senior partner at Lazarus and Sarif, Ms Nomsa Ncube, also welcomed the proposal, describing it as a positive development.
“We are in the early stages of this good initiative,” she said.
The indaba focused on the practical steps required to establish the Faculty of Law, including creating opportunities for prospective students and ensuring the institution is adequately positioned to offer legal education.
