Law Students Encourage Academic Excellence in Mentoring Programme

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Facilitating a relationship between student mentors and mentees was on the agenda as fourth-year LLB students  Ms Arlina Ramothar and Ms Zinhle Khoza hosted a “Meet and Greet” for the Students for Law and Social Justice (SLSJ) Mentorship Programme at UKZN’s Howard College campus.

SLSJ, an organisation formed in partnership with students from various universities in South Africa, is dedicated to protecting human rights, preventing discrimination and promoting social justice and the rule of law, with the aim of transforming legal education.

Ramothar founded the mentorship programme so that undergraduate students can be provided with practical knowledge and advice from experienced individuals. She said the Meet and Greet was designed to provide a framework for mentors in order for them to better assist their mentees.

‘We covered the Dos and Don’ts of mentorship and imparted knowledge of our past experiences of being mentors. Our mentors and mentees did not know each other personally, therefore, the Meet and Greet provided an opportunity for them to get to know one another better,’ she said.

‘As students we have different academic commitments and it might be challenging for the mentees and mentors to meet at times. Hence, the Meet and Greet served as a platform where mentors and mentees got to meet each other for the first time and set out the parameters of their relationship,’ added Khoza who is the Programme Co-ordinator.

Second-year Law student Ms Songezo Mqokeli said she needs mentorship as she requires assistance with her studies as well as balancing her school and social life.

Ms Lungile Maluleka, a mentor and fourth-year Law student, said such programmes benefit students because there is a large gap in the transition from one academic level to another.

‘Being a first-year LLB student is very different to being in second year. The amount of work increases drastically. As a fourth year I know for a fact that if I had an opportunity to be in such a programme as a mentee, there is a lot that I would have gained academically and socially,’ said Maluleka.

Words: Sibonelo Shinga