On 26 February, the University of the Free State’s (UFS) Faculty of Law and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Free State signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch the groundbreaking initiative ‘In the Shadow of the Prosecutor’, which aims to equip law students with hands-on prosecutorial experience. The programme begins on 17 March and will run for five years, providing third- and final-year law students with structured courtroom exposure and mentorship from seasoned legal professionals.

The signing ceremony was held at the Centenary Complex on the UFS Bloemfontein Campus and was attended by key figures from the legal and academic sectors. Among them were UFS Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof Hester C. Klopper; the National Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Shamila Batohi; the Director of Public Prosecutions in the Free State, Advocate Navilla Somaru; and the Dean of the UFS Faculty of Law, Prof Serges Kamga. Also in attendance were Dr Molapo Qhobela, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Institutional Change, Strategic Partnerships and Societal Impact; Prof Anthea Rhoda, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic Affairs; as well as judges, state advocates, and other senior members of the legal fraternity.

Most significantly, law students, for whom this programme was designed, were present at the event. Their enthusiasm and engagement highlighted the importance of the initiative in shaping their future careers.

Closing the gap between legal theory and practice

Speaking at the event, Prof Klopper emphasised the university’s commitment to work-integrated learning as a means of ensuring that students are industry-ready upon graduation. She noted that UFS embraces strategies that provide students with structured, real-world experiences to complement academic learning.

“One of the strategies that has yielded very positive outcomes is work-integrated learning – a concept that will also form the theme of our Senate Conference later this year,” she said. “Work-integrated programmes provide students with the opportunity to apply their learning in practice, with mentorship being an important component.”

She also acknowledged the importance of collaboration in advancing justice, stating that partnerships such as these strengthen the legal profession and prepare students to serve their communities effectively.

“We are grateful to have found such a partner in the National Directorate of Public Prosecutions, under the very able leadership of Advocate Shamila Batohi,” Prof Klopper said. “The University of the Free State salutes you for the sterling work you and your colleagues are doing in championing the rights of victims and bringing perpetrators to book.”

A legacy of student-driven innovation

The programme was largely driven by students from the Black Lawyers Association (BLA), which initially approached Advocate Somaru with the idea. Following discussions with Dean Kamga, the initiative was formalised into a full-scale collaboration between UFS and the NPA. BLA representative Rebaone Pule described the initiative as a game-changer for law students.

“This MoU has created a legacy,” he said. “Students need a practical approach, so this is bridging the gap between theory and practice. The MoU lessens the burden on every single graduate.”

A partnership for justice and excellence

In her keynote address, Advocate Batohi outlined the transformative potential of the programme, describing it as a model for legal education in South Africa. She emphasised that real-world exposure is essential for producing competent, ethical legal professionals who can navigate the complexities of prosecution.

“This MoU formalises the launch of a new and innovative programme that will help to bridge the gap between legal education and the practical demands of prosecutorial work by allowing final-year law students to shadow prosecutors in a structured way,” she said.

She also highlighted the practical benefits of the programme, explaining that it provides students with insight into case strategy, courtroom procedures and prosecutorial decision-making.

“One of the most valuable lessons students can learn is how prosecutors develop strategies for handling cases: what factors influence a prosecutor’s decision to move forward with a case; how do you evaluate the evidence to establish if it meets the standard of a reasonable prospect of a successful prosecution; how do you weigh the credibility of witnesses; and do you offer or accept a plea deal?”

Advocate Batohi noted that the programme also instils essential professional qualities such as critical thinking, ethical decision-making and communication skills, which are fundamental to successful legal practice.

Prof Kamga highlighted the programme’s role in advancing UFS’s Vision 130, which focuses on a research-led, student-centred approach.

“This MoU will inspire excellence and transform lives through quality, impact and care,” he said.

He also noted that beyond court shadowing, the NPA will contribute to guest lectures, workshops and practical legal training, strengthening the Faculty of Law’s collaboration with industry experts.

Looking ahead

This initiative not only aims to produce well-prepared legal professionals but also foster a generation of citizens committed to upholding justice and fairness.

“It’s essential that we produce excellent, knowledgeable workers who are equipped with relevant skills,” Prof Klopper said. “But it’s equally important that we develop excellent citizens who embrace the values of respect, justice and fairness.”