New degree to focus on transforming SA’s administration of justice

The Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) has introduced the first degree in paralegal studies, which focuses on the education and training of paralegals.

The aim is to have a degree which will drive the transformation of the administration of justice in South Africa.

The institution made this possible through its collaboration with many stakeholders and with the additional funds contributed by C.S. Mott Foundation and the Open Society Foundation of South Africa.

 Dr Noleen Leach has led to the establishment of the first university department on the African continent that focuses exclusively on the education and training of paralegals.

The institution recognises the importance of introducing a degree in paralegal studies since it is a key partner in the drive towards the professionalisation of the paralegal sector in South Africa.

“The first, fully-funded cohort of community-based paralegal practitioners is due to be admitted to the programme in 2021 through an RPL strategy that is the result of a comprehensive national research project completed by the department and funded by the C.S. Mott foundation.”