Kabale University’s Faculty of Law hosts the second Annual Law Professional Dinner

Kabale University’s Faculty of Law continues to position itself as a hub of excellence and innovation, as leaders in Uganda’s legal fraternity call for a transformative approach to legal practice, one that prioritizes integrity, mentorship, and alternative dispute resolution.

This was the highlight of the faculty’s second Professional Dinner, an engaging and inspirational event that brought together students, judges, legal practitioners, and policymakers under the theme “The Role of Lawyers Beyond the Courtroom.” The dinner created a vibrant platform for mentorship, professional reflection, and meaningful dialogue on the evolving role of lawyers in society.

Delivering the keynote address, Chief Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija challenged both aspiring and practicing lawyers to redefine success in the legal profession. He urged them to focus on mediation and conflict prevention rather than prolonged court battles, noting that only a small fraction of disputes in Uganda are resolved through formal courts.

“A successful lawyer does not win cases, but one who prevents them,” he emphasized, calling on young professionals to become peacemakers who foster harmony and stability within communities.

Dr. Zeija further cautioned against unethical conduct, including fraud, embezzlement, and substance abuse, warning that such behavior erodes public trust in the legal profession. He encouraged students to uphold integrity and resist the temptation of pursuing wealth through dishonest means.

The event also highlighted the strong and growing partnership between Kabale University and the judiciary. Resident Judge Justice Karoli Lwanga Ssemogerere commended the university for nurturing practical legal education, noting that students have greatly benefited from their proximity to the Kabale High Court. He reaffirmed the court’s commitment to mentorship and resource sharing, including access to legal materials and guest lectures.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Joy Kwesiga echoed these sentiments, applauding the judiciary’s support while also addressing challenges facing the institution. She noted that attracting senior academic staff remains difficult due to perceptions of Kabale as a hard-to-reach area, and called for government incentives to support service delivery in such regions.

In a significant stride toward enhancing practical legal training, the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Dr. Charlotte Kabaseke, announced plans to have a moot court soon. The facility will simulate real courtroom proceedings, equipping students with hands on experience in legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills essential for modern legal practice.

The dinner also attracted high-profile dignitaries, including judges, government officials, and legal practitioners, further reinforcing the faculty’s growing reputation and network within Uganda’s legal landscape.

Since its official inauguration in May 2024, Kabale University’s Faculty of Law has made remarkable progress. Following its accreditation in 2025, it now stands among a select group of universities authorized to offer legal education in Uganda. Through its Bachelor of Laws (LLB) program, the faculty is committed to bridging the gap between law and society while nurturing ethical, competent, and socially responsive legal professionals.

As Kabale University continues to expand its footprint in legal education, its message is clear: the future of law lies not only in the courtroom, but in building a just, peaceful, and inclusive society.

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