Law students from Mount Kenya University are set to receive a training boost in arbitration Law after the institution entered into an agreement with Law institutes in both Kenya and South Africa.
The MOU between the institution and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) Kenya branch and the International Law Institute – South African Centre for Excellence (ILI-SACE) is set to bolster learning in alternative dispute resolution.
This comes as the Judiciary continues to advocate for ADR as a more cost-effective method of resolving conflicts.
Speaking during the signing of the MOUs at the university’s Main Campus in Thika town, MKU Vice Chancellor Prof Deogratius Jaganyi said the partnership focuses on mutual capacity building, innovation in legal practice, and advancing justice through practical, world-class learning programs.
He said MKU, through their Centre for International Law (CIDLAW) based at their Parklands Law School in Nairobi will contribute academic infrastructure and student reach while CIArb will bring professional arbitration expertise and global networks.
On its part, ILI-SACE will offer international standards in arbitration and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance training.
Prof Jaganyi called on the students to embrace the opportunity noting that arbitration has proved to be a fair, transparent dispute resolution mechanism across the continent. “The cost efficiencies, effectiveness and flexibility of arbitration appeal to many people over court litigation. We applaud the government for embracing arbitration within the Kenyan Law systems. This is a training area that our students should not miss,” he said.
Jacqueline Waihenya, Chairperson CIArb Kenya Chapter said the opening up of global opportunities by digital technology going forward is likely to be laden with legal disputes, resulting in demand for arbitration services.
“Take advantage of this training opportunity in arbitration bearing in mind the costs of this training. Listen, grab something now when the costs are subsidized and run with it,” she said.
Mr Swithin Munyantwali, Vice Chairman and Co-Founder, ILI – South African Centre for Excellence called for intensified training and acceptance of youths as arbitrators so that Africa can stop relying on elderly arbitrators from the Western world.
Key activities under this MOU will include organizing high-profile public lectures on investment arbitration and emerging legal themes and joint research and mentorship programmes.
MKU students will also be exposed to regional ADR events such as CIArb’s annual ADR Week to enhance knowledge access.
By Muoki Charles
