The Faculty of Law's Teaching and Learning Committee successfully hosted its annual Electives Day on November 7, 2024. This event sought to guide and excite third-year students as they choose elective courses for the coming academic year. Electives Day is a crucial activity in the Faculty's commitment to assisting students in making informed academic decisions that are consistent with both their academic aims and career goals.

Electives Day provides students with a unique opportunity to explore the several elective modules offered for the 2025 academic year. Attendees were given an in-depth overview of the modules available via a series of talks and departmental exhibitions, which ranged from specific legal subjects to transdisciplinary choices. This exposure allows students to reflect on their interests and learn how various electives can help them prepare for careers in the competitive legal field.

The event started with a welcome by Professor Elsabe Schoeman, Dean of the Faculty of Law, who outlined the significant role that elective courses in defining students' academic journeys. Professor Charles Maimela, the Deputy Dean,  characterised Electives Day as a crucial event for students to explore paths that could lead to specialised legal careers or larger responsibilities within the justice system.

Throughout the day, officials from many departments delivered presentations outlining the contents and consequences of each elective module. Professor Maimela then presented Professor Anton van der Linde, head of the Exchange Programs, who gave a summary of the exchange program opportunities available to students and faculty. He addressed the benefits and downsides of these programs, asking students to consider participating. Following that, Dr Ndumiso Dladla represented the Department of Jurisprudence and provided information on its elective programs. Professor Steve Cornelius provided an overview from the Department of Private Law, and Professor Phumudzo Munyai reviewed electives from the Department of Mercantile Law. Professor Ntombizozuko Dyani-Mhango shared information about the Department of Public Law's offers. The Department of Procedural Law also presented its programs, most notably, Professor Rian Cloete informed students that Sports Law would not be offered as an elective in 2025, but would return in 2026. Professor Rashri Babolaal-Frank also handled the elective subject on Alternative Dispute Resolution, while Professor Thino Bekker presented Deeds and Notarial Practice. Mr. Frik Grobelaar emphasized the Practical Law program, urging students to examine this unique offering.

Exhibition stands were set up throughout the facility, staffed by faculty members eager to answer questions, provide help, and explore each elective's real-world applicability. These interactive seminars gave students the opportunity to obtain practical insights and ask for guidance directly from professors, some of whom are also industry experts.

Electives Day demonstrates the Faculty's commitment to providing a helpful, informed, and personalized learning experience for each student. With a varied range of programs available, this event provided students with the necessary information and inspiration to make decisions that aligned with their academic interests and career ambitions. As they prepare for the 2025 academic year, students are better equipped to choose electives that will deepen their legal education and advance their careers.

This year's Electives Day was a huge success, demonstrating the Faculty of Law's dedication to enabling students in their academic and professional pursuits.