The Law Students’ Union (LSU) of the University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (UBIDS) has successfully organised a Public Lecture aimed at equipping students with practical knowledge and professional insights into the legal profession.
Held on April 13, 2026 at the New Auditorium, under the theme, “Preparing the 21st Century Lawyer: Bridging Legal Education and Practice,” the lecture brought together distinguished legal practitioners, academics, and public officials to mentor students and bridge the gap between legal education and real-world legal practice.
In his welcome address, Mr. Luguniah Wepaare, the LSU President highlighted the importance of aligning legal education with the practical demands of the profession, noting that the initiative was designed to expose students to real-world experiences, ethical considerations, and the broader role of legal training in leadership and governance. He encouraged students to pursue not only academic excellence but also integrity, professionalism, and service to society.
Chairing the event, Simon Kofi Badiako Esq., District Magistrate, Wa, Upper West Region, underscored the changing dynamics of the legal profession, shaped by technology, globalisation, and evolving client expectations. He emphasised that the modern lawyer must be digitally competent, practically skilled, commercially aware, and ethically grounded, and pointed out the persistent gap between legal education and practice. He called for reforms that prioritise practical training, early exposure to legal environments, and the integration of technology into legal education, while urging students to take responsibility for their own professional development.
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Emmanuel Kanchebe Derbile, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to training practice-oriented and ethically grounded legal professionals. He noted that legal education must go beyond theory to incorporate critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical exposure, and commended the Law Students’ Union for organising a timely and impactful programme.
The Upper West Regional Minister, Honourable Charles Lwanga Puozuing, Esq., in his remarks, urged students to view their legal education as a critical tool for national development. He emphasised that the study of law goes beyond mastering statutes and case law, equipping students with the capacity to shape governance and influence decision-making. He further noted that leadership requires responsibility and integrity, stressing that power must be seen as a trust to be exercised with accountability.
Delivering a presentation on “Career Pathways in Law,” the Principal State Attorney for the Upper West Region, Saeed Abdul-Shaqur, Esq., emphasised that the study of law is a continuous and demanding process that requires dedication and lifelong learning. He highlighted the diverse opportunities within the legal profession, including private practice, public service, academia, and research, and encouraged students to remain focused and committed to their studies.
In a complementary presentation on “Ethics, Integrity, and Professional Responsibility,” veteran legal practitioner Honourable Clement Eledi, Esq., stressed that the legal profession is sustained not only by knowledge and skill but also by character, honesty, and a strong moral conscience. He reminded students that lawyers are officers of the court with a duty to uphold justice, urging them to maintain high ethical standards, avoid conflicts of interest, and protect client confidentiality. He further emphasised that it is better to lose a case with integrity than to win through unethical means, noting that public trust in the legal system depends on the conduct of legal practitioners.
The lecture provided a valuable platform for students to gain practical knowledge, professional guidance, and inspiration from experienced practitioners. It also reinforced the importance of bridging the gap between legal education and practice through collaboration among institutions, professionals, and students.
The event was well attended by students, faculty, and members of the University community and reaffirmed UBIDS’ commitment to producing competent, ethical, and socially responsible legal professionals.