Members of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Constitutional and Legal Affairs toured the Ghana School of Law on Thursday, where they were confronted with facilities that have served generations of students yet show little sign of modern investment.
His Lordship Nana Justice Barima Yaw Kodie Oppong, the School’s Director, led the lawmakers through lecture halls and offices that, he explained, have stood unchanged for decades.
“The benches creak under every step, and the walls bear the marks of countless students.
“But this history cannot replace the need for safe, well-maintained spaces where tomorrow’s attorneys can learn.” Justice Oppong added
Beyond the physical infrastructure, the Committee heard that the School employs only a handful of permanent lecturers, relying heavily on part-time tutors to fill gaps.
Rising workloads have left some junior staff waiting years for promotion, while salary levels have not kept pace with the cost of living.
“These young lawyers deserve mentors who are fully invested in their education, with the security of stable employment.
“And our current pay structure makes it hard to attract and retain talent.” Justice Oppong told the Committee
Hon. James Enu, Vice-Chair of the Committee, pledged to relay these concerns directly to the Minister of Justice and the Attorney General.
He promised that the Committee would push for budget allocations to renovate classrooms, increase the core faculty, and review staff remuneration.
“In supporting your needs, we safeguard the standards of Ghana’s legal profession,” Enu said, assuring the School that the Ministry would work closely with its leadership to forge solutions and strengthen the nation’s flagship law training institution.
