Judiciary committed to nurturing future leaders –CJ

The Chief Justice (CJ), Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, has unveiled transformative initiatives under the 2024 Enhanced Chief Justice’s Mentoring Programme, reaffirming the Judiciary’s commitment to nurturing future leaders grounded in integrity and service to the nation.

The event, held on Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at the Ghana School of Law, carried the theme: “I Pledge Myself to the Service of Ghana.”

Addressing a distinguished audience – including Supreme Court Justices, members of the Ghana Bar Association, educators, students and the media – Justice Torkornoo celebrated the vision of her predecessors in establishing the mentoring programme.

Initiated by Justice Georgina Theodora Wood in 2008, the initiative has grown to bridge the gap between the Judiciary and the public, while inspiring young people to pursue careers in law and public service.

This year’s programme introduced Justice Clubs, an innovation aimed at extending mentorship beyond the annual event.

These clubs, inaugurated in five Senior High Schools and youth groups, including St. Mary’s Senior High School, Accra High School and market porters (Kayayei) – are designed to deepen students’ understanding of legality, rights and constitutional principles.

“We are committed to demystifying the Judiciary and fostering a culture of justice through interactive engagements in schools and communities,” Justice Torkornoo said.

Plans are underway to establish Justice Clubs nationwide in 2025.

The Moot Court Competitions 

A new highlight of the programme was the moot court competition, which saw students from Justice Clubs showcasing their advocacy skills.

Justice Torkornoo praised participants for their dedication and encouraged them to view law as a tool for social transformation.

“The competition reflects our commitment to nurturing critical thinking and effective advocacy among young people,” she remarked.

Building a Culture of Service

In her keynote address, Justice Torkornoo underscored the importance of service to national development, stating “a nation’s greatness is the sum of its citizens’ efforts.

Whether in Science, Engineering or Law, progress comes from projects that benefit the collective good.”

She urged young people to prioritise ethical values, integrity and a commitment to lawful behaviour as drivers of personal and national success.

Justice Torkornoo expressed deep gratitude to institutional partners, sponsors, mentors and educators for their support in making the programme successful.

She highlighted the contributions of the UNDP, UNFPA, Bank of Ghana and Kasapreko Company Limited, among others.

Encouraging students to actively engage in the programme’s activities – including court visits and interactive forums – Justice Torkornoo concluded: “Today, we plant seeds of justice and service that will grow into a legacy of leadership and integrity for Ghana.”

On her part, Mrs. Efua Ghartey, President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) inspired young Ghanaians to view the legal profession as a tool for change and national development.

“Each of you has the potential to be change-makers,” Mrs. Ghartey said, adding “Whether as human rights lawyers defending the marginalised, corporate lawyers driving economic innovation, or legal aid lawyers ensuring justice for the underprivileged, your path can be one of service.”

Mrs. Ghartey indicated that lawyers have played critical role in Ghana’s history, from the independence movement to contemporary advocacy for human rights and economic equity.

“Service is a daily commitment to making a difference, no matter how small,” she noted “It’s about standing up for what is right and creating opportunities where none seem to exist.”

The Journey to Excellence

Justice of the Court of Appeal, Eric Kyei Baffour, added a personal touch, sharing how he overcame academic struggles to become a celebrated legal professional.

He told the students that their time is their most valuable assets, cautioning them against the distractions of social media.

“Invest in enriching your knowledge and preparing for a fulfilling career.”

Both speakers emphasised the importance of integrity, discipline and service in shaping Ghana’s future leaders, urging students to view law as a profession that transcends personal success to drive collective progress.

 

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