Media Advisory

Final Rounds of the 14th Annual South African National Schools Moot Court Programme

08 October 2025

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), in partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DoJ&CD), will host the final rounds of the 14th Annual South African National Schools Moot Court Programme on 09 and 10 October 2025 at the University of Pretoria, with the grand finale taking place on 12 October 2025 at the Constitution Court in Braamfontein, Johannesburg.

The 2025 moot problem focuses on the constitutionality of schools’ language admission policies, particularly those prescribing a single language of instruction. Learners will debate whether it is constitutional for schools to admit only learners who speak a particular language as their home language or who are fluent in that language.

Aimed primarily at Grade 10 and 11 learners from all provinces, the programme seeks to empower young people with knowledge of human rights concepts, values, and principles, while encouraging learners—especially those from previously disadvantaged communities—to pursue careers in law.

Participants gain essential skills in public speaking, research, writing, legal reasoning, and case analysis. The final rounds will be adjudicated by Judges of the Constitutional Court, Judges of the Supreme Court of Appeal, High Court Judges, Magistrates, and senior legal practitioners.

Media Invitation: Members of the media are invited to cover both sessions of the as follows:

Part 1: Preliminary Oral Rounds Dates: 09 – 10 October 2025 Time: 09h00 Venue: University of Pretoria
Part 2: Grand Finale
Date: 12 October 2025 Time: 09h00 Venue: Constitution Court, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Media Confirmations: Please confirm attendance with Mr Mandla Mathebula on 082 867 9824.

Media Enquiries
Mr Wisani Baloyi Communications Coordinator South African Human Rights Commission 081 016 8308
Mr Terence Khala Acting Director: Communication and Research Department of Basic Education 081 785 1546
Ms Kgalalelo Masibi Chief Director: Communication Management Department of Justice and Constitutional Development 065 747 0323

Issued by the South African Human Rights Commission in partnership with the Department of Basic Education and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.