Professor Shaista Shameem, Vice Chancellor and Dean of the Justice Devendra Pathik School of Law at the University of Fiji, has responded firmly to remarks made by Attorney General Graham Leung regarding the production of law graduates in Fiji. Leung claimed that the three universities are producing law graduates in an “assembly line fashion,” a statement Professor Shameem describes as not only untrue but also degrading and demoralizing for emerging lawyers.
During his speech at the Fiji Law Society Convention, the Attorney General’s comments were characterized by Professor Shameem as “simplistic and full of generalizations.” She expressed disappointment, noting that she expected more substantive insights on the legal profession’s current state. Contrarily, she emphasized that the University of Fiji has intentionally established a small, focused law program, producing top-tier graduates each year.
Notably, Shameem highlighted that every law graduate from the University of Fiji is employed upon admission, asserting that officials should be more diligent in their statements rather than making broad assertions in public discourse. She also voiced her disappointment regarding Leung’s comments about senior lawyers needing to mentor young graduates, claiming there is a significant shortage of experienced lawyers who can provide appropriate guidance.
She acknowledged a concerning trend among some senior lawyers, labeling them as unprepared, arrogant, and often disrespectful to younger attorneys. This behavior, she indicated, reflects poorly on the industry’s standards and contributes to a vacuum in legal leadership within Fiji.
The JDP School of Law prioritizes ethics, public service, and respect within its curriculum, which has received positive feedback from the legal industry. Professor Shameem advised that many law firms prioritize profit over ethics, adversely influencing the values imparted to young interns. She advocates for law schools to emphasize the honorable nature of the profession while acknowledging various barriers to achieving this ideal, primarily ineffective leadership.
Encouragingly, Professor Shameem urged the Attorney General to step forward and foster an environment where aspiring lawyers can look up to exemplary figures within the profession. Her remarks serve as a call to action for a more supportive and respectful legal community, suggesting that positive change is possible with the right leadership and mentorship.
In summary, this situation reflects a broader conversation about the standards of legal education and practice in Fiji. While challenges persist, the commitment to ethical teachings and the drive for improvement within the profession could herald a new era of respected leadership and mentorship in law.
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