In a landmark ceremony at the Accra International Conference Centre on Friday, October 10, Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie administered the oath of office to 824 newly qualified lawyers, charging them to uphold the highest ethical standards and serve as beacons of justice for the vulnerable.

This year’s call to the bar marks one of the largest cohorts in recent years, reflecting the increasing demand for legal services in Ghana’s rapidly evolving economy.

According to the General Legal Council, the number of lawyers in Ghana has grown from just over 2,000 in 2010 to more than 6,500 in 2024, yet the country still maintains a ratio of approximately 1 lawyer per 5,000 citizens—far below the Commonwealth average.

A Call to Purpose and Service

Addressing the gathering of judicial officials, legal practitioners, families, and dignitaries, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie reminded the new lawyers of their profound responsibility to society.

Emphasizing service over self-interest, he urged them to prioritize the needs of the marginalized and uphold the integrity of the legal profession.

“You have chosen a path that demands courage, but it is a path that leads to purpose and fulfilling greatness. Congratulations again, our newly qualified lawyers, may you serve with humility and serve with purpose, above all, let your integrity shine,” Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie said.

Ghana’s legal sector is often called upon to address issues of access to justice, especially for the poor and disenfranchised. A 2023 report by the Legal Aid Commission found that over 70% of Ghanaians in rural areas lack adequate legal representation, underscoring the importance of the Chief Justice’s charge.

Debate Over Legal Education Reform

The Acting Chief Justice also weighed in on ongoing debates about legal education in Ghana, where calls for reform have intensified in recent years.

In 2022 alone, more than 2,500 applicants sought admission to the Ghana School of Law, though only 850 were admitted, sparking calls for wider access.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie cautioned, however, that expansion must not come at the expense of quality.

“We must, however, ensure that the reforms we seek do not merely expand the numbers but truly refine the very purpose of legal education of Ghana in the 21st Century,” he stated.

Legal experts have warned that while increased enrollment may help address the country’s lawyer-to-citizen disparity, it must be balanced with rigorous standards to maintain the quality and reputation of the Ghanaian Bar.

The General Legal Council has recently introduced new curriculum requirements and continuous professional development to ensure lawyers are equipped for modern legal challenges, including technology, international trade, and human rights.

Diversity on Display: International and Mature Graduates

The ceremony also celebrated diversity within the new cohort, with the swearing-in of Chienchun Chen, a 47-year-old Taiwanese national. Chen’s achievement drew warm applause from guests and underscored the growing international appeal of Ghana’s legal education system.

In recent years, the Ghana School of Law has admitted students from over 10 countries, reflecting the globalization of the country’s legal sector.

Looking Ahead

As the 824 new lawyers embark on their professional journeys, they join a community tasked with upholding the rule of law and advancing justice in Ghana.

The Judiciary, which in 2023 handled over 35,000 cases nationwide, continues to emphasize the need for ethical and dedicated legal practitioners.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s rallying call—serving not just personal interests but the nation’s most vulnerable—echoes at a time when legal services are more needed than ever.