Chief State Attorney and founder of the SEED Foundation, Sarah Fafa Kpodo, has encouraged law students to remain disciplined, confident and committed to growth as they prepare for careers in the legal profession.
Speaking at the 2026 Legal Fair organised by the Ghana Law School in partnership with the SEED Foundation on Friday, May 15, 2026, Ms Kpodo reminded students that success in law goes beyond intelligence and academic performance.
“You may look around this room and feel intimidated. You may see senior professionals, accomplished counsels and institutions,” she said. “But you may wonder whether you belong here. Let me answer that for you. You do.”
She, however, cautioned that potential alone would not guarantee success.
“You belong here because you have potential. You will remain here because you develop discipline,” she told participants.
Ms Kpodo urged students to take their preparation seriously and avoid waiting for ideal opportunities before improving themselves.
“Do not wait for a perfect opportunity before you prepare. Preparation is what opportunity may need,” she said.
According to her, young lawyers must deliberately build skills outside the classroom if they want to stay relevant in a changing legal environment.
“Read beyond the syllabus. Learn commercial awareness. Understand proceedings. Study ethics. Improve your communication,” she advised.
She placed strong emphasis on punctuality and professionalism, repeatedly telling students to “show up on time.”
The Chief State Attorney also encouraged students not to underestimate small tasks and routine responsibilities during internships and mentorship opportunities.
“A briefing summarised carefully, a file you already copied, a client you treat respectfully, a meeting you attend properly, an email you draft positively, a senior you observe attentively. These are not small gains,” she said.
“They are the quintessence of professional greatness.”
Ms Kpodo further urged students to approach mentorship with seriousness and humility.
“When you are mentored, do not merely consume mentorship. Honour it,” she stated. “Come prepared. Take notes. Remain focused.”
She also challenged law firms and institutions to look beyond grades when assessing young people entering the profession.
“It is a chance for law firms and institutions to look beyond grades and see paths,” she said. “Not only a clever candidate, but a teaching one. Not only a competent speaker, but a disciplined maker.”
The event brought together lawyers, students and legal professionals to discuss ethics, career growth and the future of legal practice in Ghana.
