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Maxwell_Mk
Law, pub

What They Don’t Tell You About Studying Law in Zimbabwe


25 February 2026  ·  2 min read
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What They Don’t Tell You About Studying Law in Zimbabwe
Introduction When I enrolled at the University of Zimbabwe to study law, I thought it was going to be like Suits — courtrooms, dramatic arguments, and power suits. Fast forward three years, and I now understand that law school is less about drama and more about discipline, long nights, and knowing how to read cases without falling asleep. In this article, I want to share what it’s really like to study law in Zimbabwe, especially for those considering it or just starting out. 1. The Reading Load Is Real First-year me thought reading a few pages would be enough. Wrong. Some cases are 30 pages long and in Old English. You need to learn how to read fast, summarize effectively, and know what to focus on. Tip: Buy or borrow Zimbabwean Law Reports, and form a study group — you won’t survive alone. 2. Not All Lecturers Are Like TV Judges Some are strict, some are cool. But all expect you to take responsibility for your learning. Law in Zim is still largely traditional — don’t expect slides and video lectures. Prepare to write, read, research, and repeat. 3. Internships Are Competitive (But Possible) Getting an internship at a big law firm like Atherstone & Cook or Coghlan Welsh & Guest is tough, but not impossible. I got mine by: Volunteering with a legal aid organization during first year Sending emails to firms with a short, professional CV Asking my lecturers for referrals Even unpaid experience opens doors later. 4. Join Moot Court and Debate Clubs I used to be shy, but Moot Court taught me to speak like a lawyer. These clubs help you with confidence, legal reasoning, and connections. Some of my best friends and mentors came from those clubs. Plus, they look great on your CV. 5. Mental Health Matters Law school can be mentally exhausting. I had moments I almost gave up — too much pressure, too little rest. What helped me: Journaling my goals weekly Talking to older students Taking breaks from reading without guilt Remember: Your degree is important, but so is your mind. Final Thoughts Studying law in Zimbabwe is not easy, but it's deeply rewarding. You learn to think critically, argue respectfully, and understand how the country runs. If you're starting out, here's my advice: “Be curious, be consistent, and don’t compare your journey with anyone else’s.” If you're already in law school and struggling — you’re not alone. Keep going
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Maxwell_Mk
Maxwell_Mk
Law

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