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Dr Jacques Matthee: Newly Appointed Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Law

28 February 2024 | Story VALENTINO NDABA | Photo SUPPLIED

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

Strong support for march against gender violence

2013-02-27

A huge group of students, led by the Student Representative Council, took part in the "Enough is Enough: Are you man Enough?" march on the Bloemfontein Campus.
Photo: Johan Roux
25 February 2013

YouTube Video: "Enough is Enough" Harlem shake

YouTube Video: "Enough is Enough" protest

Enough is enough. The UFS took a vocal and visual stand against gender violence and rape with a march joining the national protest movement. With banners reading: ‘No to rape,’ ‘Stop sexual terrorism’ and ‘Enough is enough’, hundreds of Kovsie men and women took part in the Enough is Enough: Are you man Enough march held on the Bloemfontein Campus. Led by Mr Rudi Buys, Dean of Student Affairs, staff and students, mostly men, told the world what they think about the scourge of violence and rape in the country.

Addressing protestors, Prof Jonathan Jansen, Vice-Chancellor and Rector, highlighted shocking rape statistics, saying that it is dangerous to be a woman these days with a woman raped every minute somewhere in the country. “Women can hardly breathe without being worried.Culture has deceived our young men. The country is experiencing a tragic time. We need to raise our children, mostly boys, to respect women from an early age. They must also learn how to deal with their emotions – boys must learn how to cry.”

Joining Prof Jansen on stage was the Student Representative Council (SRC) presidents of three universities in South Africa – William Clayton from the UFS, Horne Hallendorff from the University of Cape Town and Clinton du Preez from Stellenbosch University. “Enough is indeed enough and men should take their role seriously to ensure that we say NO to gender violence and rape against women,” Clinton told protestors.

At the request of the Dean of Student Affairs, all the men that were present kneeled as a sign of apology of the selfish acts of men against women.

The university will continue the fight against gender violence with a series of dialogues creating awareness, but also facilitating broader understanding of gender violence.

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