The University of Pretoria's Faculty of Law inducted Academic Associates and Assistant Lecturers at the Moot Court on January 28, 2025. The Dean's Office, in collaboration with Education Innovation, planned the event, which served as an important platform for introducing new academic staff to their teaching responsibilities across the faculty's numerous departments. Academic Associates and Assistant Lecturers are typically registered students at the University of Pretoria pursuing Masters (LLM) or Doctoral (LLD) studies in the Faculty of Law during the academic year in which they are appointed. The induction focused on developing coursework aligned with curriculum frameworks, instructional tactics, assessment methodologies, and professional development. The goal was to equip attendees with the tools to balance their roles as educators and scholars.

Prof Joel Modiri, Acting Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Law, welcomed attendees and established the tone for the day's activities. He subsequently delivered a presentation titled "Positioning Yourself as a Teacher in the Faculty of Law" in which he highlighted how junior academics might position themselves as competent educators while simultaneously contributing to scholarly discourse. Prof. Modiri's presentation highlighted the considerable contributions made by Academic Associates and Assistant Lecturers in the faculty's academic environment. He highlighted the importance of supporting and promoting budding academics, as many seasoned academics began their careers as tutors.

The induction program featured educational sessions delivered by professional development practitioners specialising in higher education. Ms Rodean Booysen, led a session titled "The Teaching and Learning Perspective: A Critical Reflection was presented" encouraging attendees to reflect on their pedagogical
approaches and challenges. Which also covered Learning Design/Teaching Strategies and an Overview of Assessment, which covered key instructional strategies and assessment frameworks to ensure effective student learning. Followed by Dr Pienaar's session on "Teach and Learn THE UP WAY", which focused on the distinctive teaching methodologies and principles upheld by the University of Pretoria. The Induction programme continued with more practical sessions discussing Preparing for a Lesson: Basic Tips and Best Practices, by Dr Goode, who provided useful strategies for lesson planning and classroom engagement. Other presenters included Ms Pretorius on ClickUP: Getting You Started, who shared on the university’s online learning platform for enhancing digital teaching proficiency. Ms Barry presented a session and highlighted the role of peer evaluations in refining teaching practices.

Professor Elsabe Schoeman, Dean of the Faculty of Law, made a brief yet impactful appearance at the induction to warmly welcome attendees and express her best wishes as they embark on their teaching roles. She emphasised the vital role they play in upholding the faculty's reputation as a premier institution in South Africa and across Africa.

The induction was met with enthusiastic feedback from attendees, who appreciated the faculty’s investment in their professional growth. Attendees found the sessions insightful, with many expressing that the practical guidance on lesson preparation, assessment strategies, and peer review would be invaluable as they embark on their teaching journeys.

The event highlighted the Faculty of Law’s commitment to fostering a supportive and dynamic academic community. By equipping junior academic staff with the necessary tools and knowledge, the induction served as a vital stepping stone toward developing well-rounded educators and scholars who will shape the future of legal education at UP.