Over 1,400 students inducted into Ghana Sch of Law

Justice Barima Yaw Kodie Oppong, Director of the Ghana School of Law (GSL) and a Justice of the Court of Appeal, has urged newly inducted students to adopt the ethical standards of legal education, emphasizing that they are the next generation of legal professionals who will play a key role in shaping the future of Ghana’s legal system.

During his address at the 2024/2025 induction ceremony for GSL Part One students, held on Friday, January 17, 2025, at the Ghana School of Law, Makola, Justice Oppong stressed the importance of ethics in legal practice. He encouraged the students to study diligently and uphold the school’s rules, policies, and ethical codes, not only to avoid sanctions but because it is the right thing to do.

“See these rules as virtues that should be part of your daily life, not just to avoid penalties,” Justice Oppong remarked. “As you progress through your studies, remember to embrace technology and its potential for improving economic systems, but never use it for unethical purposes.”

The role of ethics in legal education

In his address as the guest of honor, Professor Philip Ebow Bondzi-Simpson, Vice-Chancellor of Methodist University, emphasized the importance of adhering to the ethics of legal education and carrying them into practice when students are called to the Bar. He remarked that ethics is not simply a subject to be taught, but a way of life to be lived.

Professor Bondzi-Simpson noted that law school serves as a foundation where students should be instilled with ethical principles, ensuring that they enter the profession with both legal knowledge and moral integrity. He cautioned the over 1,400 newly inducted students against unethical behaviors, such as attempting to influence grades or avoiding responsibilities in group assignments, stressing that such behaviors would ultimately harm both the profession and society.

“A law student who seeks to influence grades dishonestly or takes advantage of others will likely adopt similar unethical practices as a lawyer, whether trying to influence a case outcome or shirking responsibilities,” Professor Bondzi-Simpson stated. He also warned against a tendency to resort to politicians or the media for personal grievances, emphasizing that such individuals pose a danger to society.

Political discourse and professional conduct

Professor Bondzi-Simpson also addressed the issue of political discourse, condemning the inflammatory language often used by lawyers affiliated with political parties. He urged students to avoid engaging in such conduct, highlighting the importance of maintaining decorum both in and out of the courtroom.

“You cannot be a lawyer and speak recklessly,” he said, referencing the intemperate language often seen between political parties. “While you may have your political views, it is vital that you express them in a professional manner, just as you must dress and conduct yourself properly.”

Noble profession

Mrs. Efua Ghartey, National President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), congratulated the new inductees and reminded them that the legal profession is one of the oldest and most esteemed in history. She urged them to uphold the highest ethical standards, which are crucial for maintaining public trust in the legal system.

“Choose reputation over wealth, and remember that the ethics of the legal profession are more valuable than silver and gold,” Mrs. Ghartey advised the students. “Learn to use temperate language and make ethical conduct a cornerstone of your professional identity.”

Oath of induction

At the ceremony, Justice Abena Asuamah Oppong, a Justice of the High Court, administered the induction oath to the new GSL students. Upon taking the oath, each student signed it, and their commitment will be recorded in the school’s files. The induction oath reads as follows:

“I (Name of student), having been admitted to the Ghana School of Law to pursue Professional Legal training, do solemnly pledge to uphold all the rules and regulations governing the course of study at the School. I pledge to uphold the standards, dignity, and ethics required of a law student both in and outside the school, studying to be enrolled in the legal profession. I further pledge to uplift the name of the Ghana School of Law in all my endeavors and contribute my quota to the legal profession. So help me God! Dated in Accra, this 17th day of January 2025.”