We are delighted to introduce Hazel Mukunyaidze, recipient of the 2025 Konrad Adenauer Stiftung-iNtaka Scholarship in Postgraduate Law & Technology. This is the third year that the Faculty has been able to offer this great scholarship, which includes a part-time research assistant position at the Faculty’s iNtaka Centre for Law & Technology.

We had the opportunity to ask Hazel a few questions about her interests, her direction in Law, and the reasons she applied for this scholarship.  

1. Where are you from?

I am from Harare, Zimbabwe.

2. What is your background in law?

My background in law is rooted in a strong personal interest in the legal field. I have always been drawn to understanding how the law functions and shapes our world. This fascination led me to pursue my formal legal education, attaining my LLB at University of Fort Hare – so I was able to build a solid foundation in various areas of law. Through my LLB, I found myself particularly drawn to Intellectual Property Law because of it dynamic nature and constant evolution in response to global trends and technological advancements.

3. Outline what you are doing your Master’s in, and how you understand the connection with Law & Technology?

I am doing my Master's in Intellectual Property (IP) Law. The connection between IP Law and Law & Technology is extensive. As technological advancements progress, IP laws must simultaneously evolve to address the new challenges and opportunities that emerge. Thus, the intersection between these two areas of law is central to regulating technological advancements in a way that safeguards certain rights while promoting appropriate innovation in the digital age.

4. Explain a bit about your interest in the intersection between law & technology?

The intersection between law and technology fascinates me, as it represents a rapidly evolving field with profound implications for society. As technological innovation accelerates, the legal system faces the challenge of keeping pace. New technologies – such as artificial intelligence and blockchain - often transcend existing legal frameworks thus creating a challenge to craft laws and regulations that respond to these innovations while fostering development and protecting the public interest. The complexity and novelty of these issues require a deep understanding of both law and technology, contributing to a very intellectually stimulating and professionally rewarding field to work in.

5. How do you expect the KAS-iNtaka scholarship to benefit you during 2025? And what do you think you can contribute?

The scholarship enables me to pursue advanced studies in my chosen field, Intellectual Property Law. I am excited about being part of the KAS-iNtaka initiative as I am committed to achieving academically while contributing to the intellectual community of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Foundation. I am looking forward to engaging further in high-quality research to produce work that is rigorous, relevant, and impactful in relation to the work of the iNtaka Centre for Law and Technology. This specialised, focused scholarship presents a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth. As a driven and ambitious individual, I expect the scholarship to benefit me in several ways while ensuring I am able to contribute meaningfully to the programme, the broader Faculty community and, hopefully, the legal profession.

The scholarship's funding support alleviates the burden of tuition fees and other educational expenses, so that I can focus on my studies without the added stress of financial concerns. At the same time, I am able – through the research assistant role – to gain invaluable experience in research in Law & Technology, and in being a core part of initiatives and activities run by iNatka Centre for Law & Technology. The scholarship programme connects me with a network of accomplished scholars and professionals, and provides valuable guidance, support, and collaboration opportunities that really expand the ways in which I can navigate my academic and professional journey effectively and successfully.

6. What are your longer term plans after you have achieved your LLM, and what do you hope to achieve with your professional career in Law?

After attaining my LLM in Intellectual Property Law, my goal is to join a specialised law firm or corporate legal department focusing on intellectual property law. With my professional career, I aim to promote innovation, advocate for ethical and inclusive practices, and engage in community and global efforts to protect intellectual property rights. As a KAS Scholar, I will be committed to engaging in policy development and advocacy efforts that protect IP rights while balancing public interests.