Supreme Court Judge Justice Isaac Lenaola has called for reforms in legal education to align training with emerging trends such as artificial intelligence while strengthening ethical standards within the legal profession.
Justice Lenaola noted that artificial intelligence and other digital innovations are increasingly influencing many sectors and will inevitably shape legal practice and judicial processes.
Speaking during the launch of the law school and Bachelor of Laws programme at Zetech University in Mang’u on Friday, Lenaola urged institutions offering legal education to prepare future lawyers for a rapidly changing technological environment.
He challenged law students and legal scholars to begin reflecting on how courts will handle disputes arising from emerging technologies, saying the next generation of lawyers must be equipped to navigate complex legal questions arising from technological advancement.
“The legal training has remained somewhat static. What was taught years ago is still being taught today. With the competency-based curriculum (CBC) and emerging technologies, universities and the Kenya School of Law must be prepared to meet these new demands,” Lenaola said.
At the same time, the judge raised concern over unethical conduct within the legal profession, noting that cases of corruption and exploitation of clients continue to erode public confidence in the justice system.
His remarks come amid growing scrutiny of the judiciary following the recent arrest of a judge by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission over corruption allegations.
Lenaola said such incidents highlight the urgent need to strengthen integrity and accountability among advocates and judicial officers. He warned that cases where clients are swindled by unscrupulous practitioners undermine the credibility of the legal system and must be decisively addressed.
Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic and Student Affairs at Zetech University, Prof. Alice Njuguna, said the establishment of the law school marks a significant milestone for the institution as it seeks to contribute to the development of the legal profession.
Njuguna noted that the university remains committed to upholding the highest standards in legal education and training to ensure graduates are competent and well prepared to serve society.
Also speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer of the Council of Legal Education, Jack Mwimali, said the accreditation of the Bachelor of Laws programme reflects the university’s commitment to meeting the required standards in legal training.
Mwimali emphasized that institutions offering legal education must maintain quality training that equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding required to effectively serve the justice system.
By Muoki Charles
