Natural Justice, the Centre for Environmental Rights, and the University of Pretoria are hosting a fully funded Climate Litigation School for students, researchers, and activists to build strategic, real-world skills in climate justice and environmental law.
| 📅 Event Dates | 5 – 10 July 2026 |
| đź“Ť Location | Future Africa Campus, University of Pretoria, South Africa |
| đź’° Value / Funding | Fully Funded (Flights, Meals, and Accommodation Covered) |
| 🏢 Host Institutions | Natural Justice, CER, and University of Pretoria’s Centre for Environmental Justice in Africa |
| đź‘Ą Target Audience | South African students, researchers, lawyers, and climate activists |
About the Climate Litigation School
The Climate Litigation School 2026 is a unique, interdisciplinary program designed to build sustained capacity and collaboration among a diverse network of actors advancing climate justice across the continent.
Moving beyond traditional classroom learning, this intensive short course serves as a dedicated training ground for lawyers, legal empowerment practitioners, and students from multiple disciplines—including law, environmental science, and public policy.
Why This Program is Distinctive
A standout feature of the School is its emphasis on integrating scientific evidence, climate attribution science, and Indigenous and traditional knowledge into legal frameworks. Participants will explore landmark climate cases and learn how to build deep community-lawyer alliances, ensuring that frontline communities are active co-creators of legal strategies rather than just onlookers.
Benefits & Financial Coverage
This program acts as a fully funded fellowship opportunity. For selected participants, the organizers will cover:
- Full Tuition: Access to all training modules, curriculum materials, and sessions with leading global experts.
- Flights: Round-trip air travel to Pretoria, South Africa (as required).
- Accommodation: Full lodging provided at the Future Africa Campus (including wheelchair-accessible accommodation if needed).
- Meals: All daily meals provided for the duration of the 6-day school.
Who Should Apply?
The organizers welcome applications from individuals based in South Africa who are working or studying in fields such as:
- Law and Legal Studies
- Environmental Science
- Public Policy
- Climate Justice Activism and Community Organizing
Selection Criteria
Candidates will be rigorously evaluated based on the following pillars:
- Demonstrated interest or practical experience in climate, environmental, or human rights work.
- Clear potential to contribute to and benefit from the intensive program.
- A proven commitment to using the skills and knowledge gained to advance climate justice in their respective communities or professional networks.
- Note: Selection will also prioritize diversity, including balanced racial and gender representation.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online using the official intake system. Be prepared to outline your current work, studies, and motivation for joining the cohort.
- Prepare Your Profile: Have your academic background, organizational details, and a statement of purpose ready.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the official Google Form registry accurately before the selection panel begins reviews.
Official Application Link
To submit your application directly to the selection committee, click the link below:
👉 Apply Online: Official Climate Litigation School 2026 Application Form