By: Usman Fambuleh
Students from IMATT College participated in their first international arbitration oral pleading against Heinrich-Heine-University of Düsseldorf during a simulated arbitration hearing held in Hong Kong on Monday, 16 March 2026.
The academic exercise formed part of an international arbitration moot designed to expose law students to practical legal advocacy and cross-border dispute resolution. In the proceedings, IMATT College acted as the Respondent, while the German university represented the Claimant.
During the hearing, both teams presented detailed legal arguments before a panel of arbitrators, following a format that mirrors real international arbitration proceedings. Students applied principles of international commercial law, arbitration procedures, and persuasive advocacy to defend their positions.
The IMATT College team challenged claims raised by the German university, addressing key issues related to contractual obligations, jurisdiction, and the interpretation of international arbitration provisions. Meanwhile, Heinrich-Heine-University of Düsseldorf advanced arguments supporting their claim and urged the arbitral panel to rule in their favor.
Speaking after the oral pleading, Cecilia Alice Sesay described the experience as both challenging and rewarding. She noted that competing against a European university exposed the team to diverse legal perspectives and strengthened their confidence in presenting arguments before an international panel.
According to Sesay, the exercise also allowed the students to test their research skills, advocacy techniques, and ability to respond to complex legal questions from the arbitrators during the proceedings.
Legal observers highlighted the moot as a valuable opportunity for students to develop practical skills in international dispute resolution, legal drafting, and courtroom-style advocacy. Arbitration is widely recognized as one of the most effective methods for resolving commercial disputes between parties from different countries.
IMATT College’s participation in the international arbitration moot underscores the growing involvement of Sierra Leonean law students in global legal academic platforms. For the institution, the exercise represents a key step in strengthening international legal education and practical training in arbitration and commercial law.
Academic coordinators at IMATT College praised the participating students for their dedication and preparation ahead of the oral hearing. They emphasized that such international engagements broaden students’ understanding of international law and prepare them to compete with peers from universities worldwide.
For the students of IMATT College, the oral pleading against Heinrich-Heine-University of Düsseldorf marks a milestone in their legal education and a proud achievement for the institution as it continues to expand its presence in international legal academic exchanges.
