On the evening of 5 March 2026, the Acta Juridica 2025 launch took place at the Oliver Tambo Moot Court, bringing together members of the legal fraternity, academia, and students for an engaging and forward-looking discussion.

Hosted at the University of Cape Town Faculty of Law, the event marked the release of this year’s volume titled Mission 2055: The Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 – 30 years on and 30 years beyond. The publication reflects on the past three decades of labour law in South Africa while critically engaging with the challenges and possibilities that lie ahead.

The programme was guided by General Editor and MC, Ms Solona Lutchman, who welcomed guests and steered the evening’s proceedings. Opening remarks were delivered by Dean of Law, Prof Mohamed Palekar, who set the tone for a reflective and thought-provoking discussion on the evolution of labour law.

Issue Editors Prof Rochelle le Roux and Prof Evance Kalula were acknowledged for their work on the volume, with Prof le Roux sharing insights into the vision and conceptual framing of the publication.

The highlight of the evening was the address by guest speaker, Judge Kate Savage, Judge of the Labour Appeal Court and the High Court, Western Cape Division. Her address unpacked key themes explored in the book, including the future of work, the impact of artificial intelligence on employment, and the ongoing relevance of labour law in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Drawing on topics such as dispute resolution, dismissal law, and the regulation of emerging forms of work, Judge Savage offered a compelling perspective on how legal frameworks must adapt to remain effective in the face of technological advancement, climate change, and shifting economic realities.

The publication itself explores critical questions: Will traditional workplaces still exist by 2055? Can current labour laws withstand the pressures of automation and global change? And how should legal systems evolve to protect workers in both formal and informal economies?

The Acta Juridica 2025 launch was not only a celebration of scholarly contribution but also a meaningful dialogue on the future of labour law, one that will continue to shape legal thinking for years to come. Continue the conversation with Acta Juridica 2025, now available, and engage with the insights influencing the next era of the world of work. Mission 2055

See Judge Savage's speech here: