Professor Shaista Shameem, Vice Chancellor and Dean of the Justice Devendra Pathik School of Law at the University of Fiji, has expressed strong disagreement with a recent comment from Attorney General Graham Leung, who suggested that law graduates from three universities are produced in an “assembly line fashion.” Shameem characterized this remark as not only false but also damaging and disheartening for emerging lawyers in Fiji.
In her response to Leung’s speech at the Fiji Law Society Convention, Shameem argued that it lacked depth and relied on generalizations that do not accurately reflect the legal education landscape in Fiji. She emphasized the University of Fiji’s commitment to developing a “boutique” law school that prioritizes quality over quantity, noting that their graduates achieve a 100 percent employment rate following admission. This statistic highlights the need for public officials to conduct more thorough research before making broad claims in a public setting.
Shameem also voiced her disappointment over Leung’s previous statement suggesting that young lawyers require more mentorship from seasoned practitioners, suggesting that the shortage of highly skilled senior lawyers limits the quality of guidance available to law graduates. She observed a troubling atmosphere among some older lawyers who exhibit unprofessional behavior that may detract from setting a positive example for young professionals entering the field.
While recognizing the eagerness of young graduates to learn and their passion for the law, she pointed out the existence of a “legal leadership vacuum” in Fiji, exacerbated by instances of arrogance and lack of respect among some of the more senior practitioners. Professor Shameem criticized the tendency for some law firms to prioritize profit over public service, which could compromise the ethical training of future lawyers.
The JDP School of Law emphasizes important values such as ethics and respect for all individuals as essential components of its curriculum. Despite the challenges facing the profession, Shameem remains optimistic about the potential for young lawyers to uphold the standards of honor and integrity that the legal field demands. She urged the Attorney General to take an active role in providing young lawyers with exemplary figures they can aspire to emulate.
FijiLive has reached out to the Office of the Attorney General for comment on this matter.
This discourse around the legal education system in Fiji brings to light the pressing need for mentorship and professional standards in the legal field, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a supportive environment for future lawyers. By addressing leadership challenges and promoting role models, the potential for growth and improvement within the profession remains hopeful.
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