UP Welcomes the 13th Law Schools Global League Summer School Cohort with Warmth and Purpose

On Sunday, 29 June 2025, the University of Pretoria (UP) proudly opened its doors to welcome participants of the 13th edition of the Law Schools Global League (LSGL) Summer School. The orientation event, held at UP’s Faculty of Law, marked the beginning of a dynamic two-week academic journey bringing together some of the brightest legal minds from around the world.

The gathering began with a warm and heartfelt welcome by Professor Joel Modiri, Acting Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Law. “We hope you enjoy only the best of South Africa—none of the troubles” he said, setting a hopeful and collegial tone for the weeks ahead. Prof Modiri also introduced key faculty leaders including Professor Dyani-Mhango(Chair of Internationalisation and HOD of Public Law), Professor Stephen van Eck (HOD of Mercantile Law), Professor Anton van der Linde (HOD of Private Law), Professor Rashri Baboolal-Frank (HOD of Procedural Law), Adv Phethedi Molekoa(Faculty Manager), and the Dean’s Office staff.

Reflecting on the academic objectives of the programme, Professor Modiri emphasised the enriching and comparative nature of the summer school:

"I hope the programmes you’ll be participating in are edifying, enriching, and provide insights into different legal perspectives from various jurisdictions. May you also form lifelong connections during your time here."

Professor Charles Maimela, the Faculty’s Acting Dean, echoed the sentiment, calling the cohort “special,” especially as the event marked only the third time the LSGL has taken place on African soil.

“We are proud to host you at Africa’s top-ranked law faculty. This is an opportunity to build long-lasting experiences, foster global collaborations, and contribute meaningfully to humanity.”

Professor Maimela encouraged students to embrace their time at UP, not only as an academic endeavour but as a transformative life experience:

“When you return home, we hope you return as different people—more equipped to use law as a force for good. Law can build or destroy; it depends on how you choose to use it.”

Ms Esra Özcan, the LSGL Summer School Coordinator, brought a touch of history and continuity to the occasion. Having been at the helm of the programme for 13 years, she shared reflections on past cohorts and welcomed the new group with enthusiasm.

“Every year brings a new excitement. Thanks to our incredible colleagues at the University of Pretoria, you’re going to have a truly memorable experience.”

Mr Legodi Thutse, a previous LSGL participant who attended the 2024 summer school in Colombia, and now one of the academic teaching staff offered a powerful reflection on the impact of the programme:

“The fact that you have been chosen to participate in this summer school means that you are really exceptional and I implore you to take this opportunity to make networks so you are able to collaborate in future with the colleagues you meet here”

The orientation closed with participants introducing themselves and meeting the professors who will guide them through the programme. The upcoming weeks also include the LSGL Deans’ Meeting, the academic conference, and a number of cultural and social events—all culminating in what promises to be an intellectually rich and globally connected summer school.

As Prof Maimela officially declared:

“The 2025 LSGL Summer School at the University of Pretoria is now open.”

UP is ready to host, challenge, and inspire. And as promised, participants can expect to be treated like royalty.

To mark the official opening, guests and participants were treated to a selection of refreshments and light snacks, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere that encouraged early interactions and informal exchanges. The shared moment of hospitality not only celebrated the start of the programme but also offered a taste of South African warmth and generosity, setting the tone for the collegial spirit that would define the weeks ahead.