Deputy Attorney-General Advocates for Ethical Reform in Ghana’s Legal Education

Accra: Dr Justice Srem-Sai, Deputy Attorney-General, has called for a renewed focus on ethics in Ghana's legal education to bridge the gap between academic training and professional practice. He noted that while law students in Ghana acquire substantial theoretical knowledge, there remains a significant disconnect between classroom teachings and the ethical practices required in the field, raising questions about the profession's moral grounding. According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Srem-Sai made these remarks at the First Annual Law Union Conference of the Central University, organized by the Faculty of Law, under the theme: 'Ethics in Legal Education.' He highlighted that ethical issues in legal education often begin right from the admission process, where perceptions of favoritism and influence can undermine the integrity of the system. The belief that connections, rather than merit, are necessary for admission and success erodes trust and distorts the core values of the legal profession. Dr Srem-Sai empha sized that ethics in legal education should extend beyond mere rules and regulations to address deeper questions of conscience. He articulated that ethical judgment involves more than identifying violations of rights, as it also encompasses the intentions behind actions. He stressed that ethics has maintained a consistent distinction between right and wrong throughout history, urging legal professionals not to succumb to contemporary pressures. In his address, the Deputy Attorney-General advocated for the integration of ethics into every aspect of legal training, beginning with the first year of study. He proposed the use of practical case discussions to prepare students for real-life decision-making. Dr Srem-Sai further encouraged educators to engage students in understanding the rationale behind moral judgments, promoting a more comprehensive grasp of ethical principles beyond mere theoretical knowledge. Professor Samuel Kwasi Dartey-Baah, the Vice-Chancellor of Central University, also addressed the conf erence, emphasizing the need for more African lawyers to act as advocates of progress. He underscored the multifaceted role of lawyers as defenders of rights and architects of laws that protect various societal interests. Professor Dartey-Baah called for a national commitment to expand access to legal education, enhance professional ethics, and uphold integrity as a fundamental pillar of the rule of law.