Justice Africa will continue to hold public lectures, both high profile and international, and locally driven. The Lectures and Seminar Series aims to provide a forum for discussion, debate and critical thinking; engaging civil society in a ‘capacity building’ process built on analysis and shared learning. In addition, there are a number of other valuable results that can hopefully be achieved:

1. Building Cohesion and Solidarity

Solidarity is a vital component of a strong and active civil society. Cooperation and support between different types of civic stakeholders means that agendas can be pursued more effectively. Bringing people together in an open forum for thought and learning helps to build this cohesion, through relationship building and dialogue.

2. Helping to link international NGOs with local civil society

Understanding of local perspectives enhances international ability to understand and respond to needs. The Seminar Series will provide international groups with the opportunity to meet various Sudanese groups, learn about the many different views held by Southern Sudanese civil society and to engage in discussions on what could be way forwards for South Sudan; enhancing the work that all stakeholders undertake.

3. Bringing the Debate to the People Affected Most

A number of critical debates surround issues in which civil society traditionally plays a role, yet the debate remains fixed at the higher levels of governance and academic forums (largely in Western countries). The Seminar Series is an opportunity to bring the debate to the people who are often affected most by such concepts and policies, in order for them to better explore alternatives and options for progress.

4. Making People Think

Perhaps the best form of engaging and strengthening civil society is through inspiring thought and learning in an open and free intellectual forum for both lecturer and attendee. Valuable insights can be gained at many levels.