Kabale University Law Students Gain Hands-On Experience at Court of Appeal Sitting in Kabale
The Faculty of Law at Kabale University (KAB_LAW) had the privilege of attending a sitting of the Court of Appeal held at the Kabale circuit on Wednesday, November 7, 2025. The visit aimed to give students practical exposure to the country’s appellate judicial processes and enhance their understanding of criminal and evidence law.
The session provided a unique learning experience for students to observe the workings of the second-highest court in Uganda’s judicial hierarchy. It focused mainly on a criminal appeal session where several appeal cases were heard, most of which involved challenges to convictions and sentences delivered by the High Court.
During the proceedings, the accused persons were called before the bench and given the opportunity to have their appeals heard. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions presented submissions already filed on record, while Counsel Felix represented the accused on State Brief.
The session was presided over by three distinguished Justices of the Court of Appeal: Hon. Justice Fredrick Martin Stephen Egonda Ntende, Hon. Justice Oscar Kihika, and Hon. Justice Jesse Byaruhanga Rugyema.
Students gained invaluable insights into criminal procedure and evidence law, which form the foundation of legal education and practice. They also developed confidence and appreciation for courtroom dynamics, from understanding the roles of the bar and bench to observing courtroom decorum and structure.
The Justices commended the Faculty for its commitment to practical legal education and expressed delight at the students’ knowledge, discipline, and inquisitiveness. They encouraged the learners to work diligently to achieve their professional aspirations.
In a special interactive session with KAB_LAW students, the Justices entertained questions on key legal principles such as the presumption of innocence in appeal cases and the leadership structure of Court of Appeal sessions in the absence of the Deputy Chief Justice.
Dr. Charlotte Kabaseke, Dean of the Faculty of Law, noted that such engagements strengthen the faculty’s experiential learning approach, bridging theory and practice.
“Our students benefited greatly from witnessing how justice is dispensed at appellate level. It reinforced lessons learned in class and inspired them to pursue excellence in legal practice,” remarked Dr. Kabaseke.
The visit concluded with a photo session featuring the Faculty members, Justices, and students – a memorable moment reflecting Kabale University’s dedication to producing competent and ethically grounded legal professionals.
Leave a Reply