Published on: May 13, 2025
Ntlantla Valtein has proudly earned his place among the University of Fort Hare’s (UFH) exceptional law alumni.
At the recent graduation ceremony, where he received his LLB degree, Valtein, now pursuing his LLM, was presented with the prestigious UFH Blazer by Vice-Chancellor Prof Sakhela Buhlungu.
The presentation of a UFH Blazer by the VC is a rare recognition reserved for graduates whose academic journeys are marked by exceptional achievements, remarkable resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Bright Legal Mind
Valtein, who hails from the township of Mdantsane in the Eastern Cape, distinguished himself as one of the Faculty of Law’s brightest legal minds. He consistently hoisted the UFH flag high in moot court competitions, both locally and internationally.
Currently, he is stationed in Kampala, Uganda, as a 2025 fellow of the Norwegian Agency for Exchange Corporation (NOREC), a prestigious programme that aims to foster international cooperation and provide young professionals with valuable work experience abroad.
As part of the fellowship, Valtein works with the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI), a highly regarded human rights organization, where he engages in hands-on fieldwork and collaborative public interest law projects. His efforts directly contribute to strengthening human rights initiatives, advancing legal reforms, and upholding the rule of law across Uganda.
After completing the fellowship, participants are expected to conduct research on pressing African human rights issues. This research is aimed at contributing valuable insight into how grassroots organizations collaborate with international bodies to effect lasting change.
He is also a research fellow with the African Judges and Jurists Forum and an executive member of the African Union Student Platform.
For Valtein, these experiences are more than an opportunity to serve, but also to deepen his understanding of the broader dynamics shaping human rights advocacy across the continent.
Fitting Honour
This honour from the UFH Vice-Chancellor is a fitting tribute to Valtein’s exceptional contributions during his LLB studies.
Among his many accomplishments, he and his co-counselor placed 14th out of 24 universities around the world that participated in the 16th Nelson Mandela World Human Rights Moot Court Competition in Geneva, Switzerland. The global event challenges the brightest young legal minds on complex human rights law.
Additionally, he and his teammate secured second place in the 13th Annual Child Law Moot Court Competition, further cementing his status as an exceptional mooter and advocate for justice.
Perseverance, Humility and Determination
Yet, behind the accolades lies a story of perseverance, humility, and unshakable determination.
According to Valtein, his academic journey was far from easy. Like many first-generation university students, he faced enormous personal and financial challenges, often confronting moments of doubt and despair.
“What drives me is the desire to grow beyond my circumstances and make a meaningful impact. Coming from a background marked by emotional and financial instability, I learned resilience early as the eldest of three.”
“Life taught me patience, strength, and empathy. My journey hasn’t been easy, but it gave me purpose, to rise above challenges, prove my potential, and help others do the same.”
Becoming the first graduate in his family, Valtein acknowledged the weight of this milestone, “It carries the hopes, dreams, and sacrifices of many before me. It humbles me deeply.”
He extended heartfelt gratitude to those who supported and believed in him through the toughest times. “To everyone who walked with me — your prayers, encouragement, and presence mattered more than words can express. Especially Vice-Chancellor Prof Sakhela Buhlungu, Dr Ntandokayise Ndlovu, Anel Odendaal, Prof Arthur van Coller, Adv Shandukani Muthugulu-Ugoda, and Aretha Linden. Your belief in me kept me grounded when I couldn’t see the light.”
His message to others is simple yet powerful: “This is not just a personal victory, it’s a testament that miracles do happen, and that perseverance, no matter how weary, eventually pays off. To anyone struggling out there: Hold on. You are stronger than you think.”
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