Donors Revamp LASU Law Clinic for Students

The Lagos State University (LASU) Law Clinic has undergone a significant transformation, thanks to a generous donation from philanthropists. This revamp was spearheaded by Olugbenga Ajala, with the aim of providing a more conducive setting for practical legal education. The initiative was a tribute to retired Supreme Court Justice George Adesola Oguntade, whom the donors viewed as a mentor and father figure.

Upon reviewing the clinic's existing facilities, it became apparent that they were outdated, dilapidated, and non-functional. Consequently, the donors decided to undertake a comprehensive rehabilitation project rather than merely cosmetic upgrades. Their focus lay on enhancing functionality, clinical learning, practical simulations, and professional skills development.

Notably, the donors had previously refurbished an annex lecture hall at the University of Lagos in honor of Oguntade, who had served as the LASU Chancellor in 2015. The 40th President of the LASU Law Students’ Society, Emmanuel Sewanu, hailed this intervention as a substantial boost to practical legal education. He explained that the renovated clinic would enable senior law students to establish Students’ Chambers and hone their advocacy skills under the guidance of experienced lecturers.

Sewanu also emphasized that the facility would help bridge the gap between theoretical law studies and practical practice. This would be achieved by exposing students to various aspects of legal work, including legal research, client interviewing, communication, advocacy, problem-solving, and professional ethics. Mariam Rasheed, a 400-level student, expressed her appreciation for the renovation, stating that the improved seating, ventilation, and facilities would enhance her learning experience, moot court sessions, and advocacy training.

The renovated clinic was officially dedicated in honor of George Oguntade, a former Supreme Court Justice and LASU Chancellor.