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28 February 2024 | Story VALENTINO NDABA | Photo SUPPLIED
Dr Jacques Matthee
Dr Jacques Matthee, was recently appointed the new Vice-Dean at the Faculty of Law.

In the dynamic landscape of academia, where traditional methodologies intersect with digital advancements, Dr Jacques Matthee stands out as a beacon of innovation and change. Recently assuming the role of Vice-Dean for Learning, Teaching, Innovation, and Digitalisation at the Faculty of Law, University of the Free State (UFS), Dr Matthee brings with him a profound dedication to knowledge, a passion for transformation, and a clear vision for the future of legal education.

With a distinguished academic background, including qualifications in LLB, LLM, and LLD, Dr Matthee has established himself as an expert in areas such as Legal Pluralism, African Customary Law, Criminal Law, and Medical Law. However, it is not just his credentials that distinguish him; it is his unwavering commitment to the pursuit of knowledge that sets him apart.

Pursuing knowledge: A lifelong passion

Reflecting on his childhood aspirations, Dr Matthee recalls dreaming of becoming a detective – a fascination that eventually led him to the realm of law. Over time, his interest in law deepened, propelling him towards his current position as a leading figure in legal academia. Yet, Dr Matthee’s ambitions extend beyond conventional success. In 2023, he surprised many by participating in his first-ever fitness event, demonstrating a determination to challenge himself beyond the boundaries of his profession. This blend of dedication, discipline, and integrity not only characterises his personal pursuits but also informs his professional endeavours.

Charting new horizons: The Vice-Dean's vision

Assuming the role of Vice-Dean for Learning, Teaching, Innovation, and Digitalisation, Dr Matthee enters uncharted territory. "It is a new position, not only within the faculty but also at UFS," he explains. "There is no model or blueprint to guide us." However, it is precisely this challenge that excites him the most. With autonomy in his role, Dr Matthee sees an opportunity to shape the future of legal education by pioneering initiatives that integrate traditional pedagogy with cutting-edge digital advancements.

"I look forward to the challenge of creating such a blueprint," Dr Matthee remarks. "Moreover, the position will allow me to explore and introduce exciting initiatives that could make a meaningful impact on the future and direction of teaching and learning in the faculty."

For Dr Matthee, the future of legal education lies not only in embracing innovation but also in cultivating an environment where curiosity thrives and knowledge knows no bounds. Under his leadership, the Faculty of Law at UFS is poised to embark on a transformative journey, where learning, teaching, and innovation converge to shape the legal minds of tomorrow.

In Dr Jacques Matthee, the UFS Faculty of Law finds not just a Vice-Dean, but a visionary dedicated to pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and sculpting a future where the pursuit of knowledge knows no limits. 

News Archive

UFS Law Clinic launches Access to Justice Cluster in the Eastern Free State
2010-05-13

In order to initiate support services for various paralegal associations in the Eastern Free State, the Law Clinic at the University of the Free State (UFS) recently launched the Free State Access to Justice Cluster. The cluster that is funded by Atlantic Philanthropists is managed by the UFS Law Clinic as part of their community engagement initiatives.

The overall objective of the cluster is to increase access to justice to rural and indigent communities in the region. Furthermore, quality legal services will be provided to all individuals and groups whose fundamental rights have been abused; the professional capacity of paralegals will be improved; and workshops will be facilitated to inform communities regarding their rights and duties to empower them.

Adv. Inez Bezuidenhout from the UFS Law Clinic says, “The clinic envisages reaching the aforesaid objectives through the provision of support legal services; providing training, assisting with the dissemination of information and lobbying for a stronger and an expanded network of stakeholders in the access to justice arena.”

This initial meeting, attended by various delegates from the Eastern Free State region, was mainly geared towards the identification of challenges and to establish solutions to the problems experienced by paralegals in the provision of legal services in rural communities.

“The cluster is a non-governmental organisation independent of any political party or religious affiliation. It comprises different organisations all aimed at assisting indigent community members with access to justice,” says Adv. Bezuidenhout.

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