Haramaya University College of Law Competes in Prestigious World Moot on International Law and Animal Rights Finals at Oxford University
A dedicated moot court team from Haramaya University’s College of Law is currently representing Ethiopia and the African continent at the World Finals of the World Moot on International Law and Animal Rights (WMILAR).
The competition is being held virtually at St. Hilda’s College, Oxford University, in the United Kingdom, from June 6-7, 2025.
The team comprises LL.B. students Ms. Fenet Abdurahman Temam, Ms. Fenet Jaleto Fito, and Mr. Meira Aliye Umer. They are coached by College of Law staff members Mr. Dawit Berihun Assfaw and Mr. Chala Yuye Kemer.
Haramaya University is one of only two African universities invited to the global finals, alongside the University of Cape Town, South Africa, underscoring the significance of their achievement.
The WMILAR stands as the world’s first global moot competition and training program dedicated to animal rights.
According to Dr. Richard Wentzil, Dean of the College of Law at Haramaya University, the initiative integrates traditional legal and policy frameworks with contemporary issues of animal rights. “It aims to equip future generations with the skills to ensure balanced protections for all sentient life through a policy negotiation and legal advocacy competition,” Dr. Richard stated.
He added that the competition offers a practical environment for aspiring lawyers to hone their advocacy skills in the burgeoning field of animal law.
The competition simulates a court case, challenging teams to develop crucial legal skills. Participants undergo a rigorous preparation process, culminating in testing their legal knowledge and advocacy before a panel of distinguished international judges.
The program also features panel discussions and addresses by renowned legal scholars on leading topics in international and animal law. Teams are required to submit written memorials before advancing to the oral rounds.
The College of Law previously secured the runner-up position in Africa and was awarded Best Memorandum at the WMILAR African Regional Competition, held at the University of the Western Cape in South Africa. This regional success earned them an invitation to the highly competitive World Finals.
Dr. Richared expressed immense pride in the team’s accomplishments. “The College of Law is extremely proud of the moot court team’s accomplishments and are confident that they will succeed on the global stage,” he remarked.
He highlighted the extensive preparation involved, noting that the team diligently prepared for many months despite a demanding schedule of exams, classes, and other responsibilities.
The judges for the World Finals hail from across the globe, and the venue at St. Hilda’s College, Oxford University, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning, adds to the event’s esteemed nature. Dr. Richard concluded, stating, “The students will undoubtedly make Haramaya University, and Ethiopia, proud.”
Haramaya University Public & International Relations Directorate