The Evolution of Legal Education in Pakistan through Roots IVY’s Foreign Law Programmes

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, Roots IVY has emerged as a trailblazer, particularly in the realm of legal education. Recently, our esteemed Chancellor, Ma’am Khadija Mushtaq was interviewed by The Legal International, where she shared the inspiring journey behind introducing foreign law programs to Pakistan and the significant impact these programs have had on the legal profession in the country.

A Vision for Transforming Education

The Chancellor’s journey began with a powerful vision: to provide Pakistani students with access to international education without the financial, personal, and social barriers that often hinder them from studying abroad. This vision took shape in 1999, when the idea of launching a foreign law degree program in Pakistan was first conceived. The goal was clear: to offer an internationally accredited LLB degree right here in Pakistan, enabling students to gain global qualifications without leaving their home country.

The program’s initial success was overwhelming, with a reception far beyond expectations. This success fueled the Chancellor’s passion, leading to the introduction of other prestigious law programs like those from BPP University, renowned for its excellence in preparing students for the Bar. Today, Roots IVY stands as a beacon of quality legal education, offering students the chance to earn esteemed international degrees within their own borders.

Bridging the Gap: Local vs. International Education

One of the most intriguing aspects discussed in the interview was the comparison between local legal education and the foreign programs offered at Roots IVY. While acknowledging the strengths of Pakistan’s traditional legal education, the Chancellor highlighted the distinct advantages of international programs. Unlike the more theoretical approach of local curricula, foreign programs emphasise practical skills, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

At Roots IVY, we go beyond traditional classroom learning by incorporating extracurricular activities such as moot court competitions, law clinics, and internships, which are integral to our students’ education. These experiences provide hands-on training and prepare our graduates for real-world legal challenges, ensuring they are not only knowledgeable but also adept at applying their skills in practice.

Navigating Challenges and Ensuring Quality

Introducing foreign law programs in Pakistan was not without its challenges. One significant hurdle was aligning the structure of a three-year LLB (Hons.) program with the local five-year LLB (Hons.) requirements. Through collaboration with governing bodies, Roots IVY successfully integrated both local and international educational standards, creating a unique curriculum that meets all regulatory requirements while maintaining the integrity of the foreign qualifications.

Moreover, preparing students for the local job market posed its own set of challenges. To address this, Roots IVY developed preparatory courses, ensuring that students received practical training through internships and legal clinics. This approach not only meets the academic standards but also equips students with the skills necessary for successful careers in law, both in Pakistan and internationally.

Impacting the Future of Legal Practice

The impact of Roots IVY’s foreign law programs on the future of the legal profession in Pakistan is profound. As our Chancellor noted, these programs have already begun transforming the landscape of legal practice. Graduates from Roots IVY are making their mark across the country and beyond, bringing with them a level of professionalism and expertise that is raising the standards of legal practice in Pakistan.

This transformation is not limited to the local arena. Our graduates are also making strides on the international stage, contributing to a more robust presence of Pakistani lawyers globally. This not only enhances Pakistan’s reputation in the international legal community but also fosters a more fair and impartial legal system at home.

Looking Forward: The Need for Educational Reform

In her interview, the Chancellor emphasised the need for ongoing reform in Pakistan’s legal education system to meet international standards. By adopting elements of experiential learning and integrating them into the local curriculum, Pakistani institutions can ensure that their graduates are not only academically proficient but also practically skilled and confident in their professional abilities.

Roots IVY’s foreign law programs serve as a model for these reforms, demonstrating how a blend of local and international education can produce graduates who are well-prepared to face the challenges of the legal profession in Pakistan and beyond.

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Roots IVY offers a top-tier education from early years to college, prioritizing quality instruction and independent learning. Committed to pioneering education in Pakistan, it forges diverse partnerships for unique learner paths. Globally oriented and innovative, Roots IVY shapes change agents with the capacity for positive global impact.

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