The Pretoria University Law Press (PULP) is proud to announce the winner and two runners-up of the 2025 Christof Heyns Memorial Thesis Award. The Christof Heyns Memorial Thesis Award was introduced to honour the memory of the late Prof Christof Heyns, who passed away in March 2021. Prof Heyns was one of the founders of PULP and took the initiative towards the introduction of this prize. This prize underlines his exceptional passion for promoting scholarship and a life devoted to initiating innovative ideas to make the world a better place for all.
The award for the best thesis by an African doctoral candidate completed in 2024 (and awarded in 2025) goes to Dr Hugo Uys for his thesis titled “Framed and Caged: Theorising the Vulnerability of Animal Bodies Before the Law”. The thesis was completed under the supervision of Prof Henk Botha (supervisor) and Prof Louise du Toit (co-supervisor) at Stellenbosch University.
Two runners-up were also identified: Dr Christiaan van Schalkwyk with his thesis titled “Integrating Environmental Considerations In Socio-Economic Rights Adjudication: The Role of Ecologically Sustainable Development” (completed under the supervision of Prof Sandra Liebenberg at Stellenbosch University); and Dr Tanveer Rashid Jeewa, with her thesis titled “Using the Master’s Tool to Secure the Occupiers’ House: Expropriation as Appropriate and Effective Relief in Cases of Mass Unlawful Occupation” (completed under the supervision of Prof ZZT Boggenpoel at Stellenbosch University).
A total of 25 entries were received from universities across the continent, including the University of South Africa, University of Pretoria, Makerere University, North-West University, Lagos State University, Osun State University, Stellenbosch University, Universidade Católica de Moçambique, University of Johannesburg, University of Nairobi, Nelson Mandela University, and Addis Ababa University. Of these, 17 theses were considered for the Award, while some were excluded on the basis of topic, scope, or theme — specifically where the work did not fall within the prescribed focus areas of human rights, good governance, or social justice from an African perspective.
The selection of the winner and runners-up was based on the inherent quality of the research, the relevance of the topic to African challenges, and the originality of the approach. The evaluation process benefited from the oversight and expert input of a panel consisting of Professor Duduzile Mbajiorgu (Chair), Dr Janine Hicks, and Dr Annette Singh, who provided valuable insights and perspectives during the evaluation process.
PULP warmly congratulates Dr Hugo Uys on receiving the 2025 Christof Heyns Memorial Thesis Award, and extends sincere congratulations to Dr Christiaan van Schalkwyk and Dr Tanveer Rashid Jeewa as runners-up.
Sincere thanks are also due to every doctoral candidate who submitted their research. The diversity, insight, and commitment reflected in this year’s entries continue to honour the spirit and legacy of Professor Christof Heyns. PULP wishes you continued success in your future endeavours. PULP also thanks the members of the panel (Dr Janine Hicks, Professor Duduzile Mbajiorgu (Chair), and Dr Annette Singh) for their valuable guidance in the assessment process.