LocationsMoot Court at the University of Juba
Empowering Future Justice Leaders
June 29, 2026
University of Juba, launched a moot court bringing together eight teams of three
UNDP/Sarah Abraham
JUBA, 26 June 2026 — In a significant step toward strengthening legal education and promoting the rule of law, the University of Juba launched a Moot Court initiative implemented in partnership with the African Legal Practice (ALP-South Sudan) and supported by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The event brought together eight teams each comprising of 3 aspiring law students who took part in a simulated courtroom exercise focused on electoral processes in South Sudan.
Designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice, the Moot Court provides students with a hands-on platform to engage with real-world legal challenges. This inaugural session centered on elections in South Sudan, a timely and critical topic in the country’s democratic journey.
University of Juba, School of Law - Aspiring Lawyers at the Moot Court
UNDP/Sarah Abraham
Learning by Doing
For the eight participating students, the Moot Court offered a unique opportunity to step beyond textbooks and into the roles of legal practitioners. Through simulated hearings, they presented oral arguments, examined legal evidence, and applied constitutional principles to electoral scenarios.
The exercise challenged students to think critically about electoral integrity, dispute resolution mechanisms, and the protection of citizens’ rights within democratic processes.
Strengthening Democratic Governance
UNDP’s support for the initiative reflects its broader commitment to advancing democratic governance and the rule of law in South Sudan. By focusing the Moot Court on elections, the programme highlights the importance of credible, transparent, and inclusive electoral systems.
Elections are a cornerstone of democratic societies, and legal professionals play a vital role in ensuring their integrity. Through this simulation, students explored legal frameworks governing elections, including issues related to candidate eligibility, voter rights, and electoral dispute resolution.
Moot Court, University of Juba
UNDP/Sarah Abraham
Building Skills for the Future
Beyond technical legal knowledge, the Moot Court helped participants develop essential professional skills, including public speaking, legal reasoning, teamwork, and confidence under pressure. The interactive format encouraged active participation and peer learning, fostering a dynamic and supportive environment.
Legal experts and faculty members observed the proceedings and provided constructive feedback, helping students refine their arguments and improve their courtroom etiquette.
Investing in a Just and Inclusive Society
As South Sudan continues to advance its governance and peacebuilding efforts, initiatives like the Moot Court play a critical role in nurturing informed, ethical, and capable legal professionals. By empowering students at the University of Juba, UNDP is supporting the development of a justice system grounded in fairness, accountability, and respect for human rights.
The launch of this Moot Court marks the beginning of what is expected to become a recurring platform for experiential learning, dialogue, and professional growth.
For the students who stood to argue their cases on this opening day, the experience was more than an academic exercise—it was a first step toward shaping the future of justice in South Sudan.
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