Nkumba– The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, on Wednseday presided as Guest of Honour at the launch of Nkumba University School of Law’s Moot Court, held under the theme, “Advancing Legal Advocacy through Moot Court Experience.”
Lady Justice Frances Abodo (in middle ) with University officials. (Courtesy)
Upon arrival, the Principal Judge was received by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jude Lubega; the University Secretary, Mr. Francis Sengendo; the Dean of Students, School of Law, Ms. Witness Nabalende; and HW Edgar Nyakairu, Personal Assistant to the Principal Judge, among other university administrators.
As part of the event, the Principal Judge attended proceedings in the newly launched Moot Court Room, where law students argued a fictional case on humanitarian law, simulating proceedings before the Court of Appeal. The session sought declarations and remedies for alleged violations of fundamental rights, with the winning student law firm receiving cash prizes and medals.
In her remarks, Lady Justice Abodo conveyed congratulatory messages from the Chief Justice to Nkumba University upon what she described as a significant milestone in the establishment of the Moot Court facility.
She underscored the importance of moot court training in equipping students with practical knowledge and skills. Lady Justice Abodo noted that this offers an invaluable opportunity to develop advocacy skills, sharpen legal reasoning, and build the confidence required of future advocates and judicial officers.
The Principal Judge reiterated the Judiciary’s appreciation of the important role legal education plays in the administration of justice, observing that well-trained advocates greatly assist courts in arriving at fair and just decisions.
She commended Nkumba University for naming the facility after Prof. Joseph Kakooza, describing it as a fitting tribute to a distinguished scholar and practitioner whose contribution to legal education and the development of the legal profession remains significant.
Lady Justice Abodo further encouraged the students to make full use of the facility for their personal and professional growth, reminding them that the law is a noble calling that demands integrity, diligence, and a deep sense of responsibility.
Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jude Lubega, thanked the Principal Judge for honouring the University’s invitation despite her busy schedule and for officially launching the Moot Court facility.
He also requested the Judiciary administration to consider allowing the facility to be used as a real court for handling selected matters, similar to the Law Development Centre Court. In response, the Principal Judge advised the University administration to formally write to the Judiciary, noting that certain matters, such as plea bargain cases and mobile court cases originating within Nkumba’s jurisdiction, could potentially be handled at the facility by judicial officers. She observed that such an arrangement would be in line with the Judiciary’s objective of taking justice services closer to the people.
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