By Jessica Cox
Monrovia: Liberia March 2026, The Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia has welcomed 21 newly admitted female students to the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law, calling on them to embrace their legal education as a pathway to national service, justice, and leadership.
The call was made during an orientation program organized for incoming students, where AFELL Vice President, Cllr. Bowoulo Taylor Kelley, underscored the importance of dedication, discipline, and purpose in the study of law. She conveyed greetings on behalf of AFELL’s leadership and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to advancing the rights of women and vulnerable populations across Liberia.
Cllr. Kelley highlighted AFELL’s longstanding role as a leading legal advocacy institution, noting that the organization, with a membership of over 150 female lawyers, continues to provide pro bono legal services to women, children, the elderly, and indigent persons throughout the country.
“It is both an honor and a privilege to address you as you begin this rigorous and rewarding journey,” she said. “Your admission reflects your dedication and commitment to justice.
The law is not merely a profession it is a noble vocation of service and nation-building.”
She further encouraged the students to take advantage of mentorship opportunities available through AFELL and other professional networks, emphasizing that guidance from experienced practitioners can play a critical role in shaping their legal careers.
According to her, the increasing presence of women in the legal profession is essential to ensuring inclusivity, fairness, and balanced representation within Liberia’s justice system.
Cllr. Kelley also urged the students to remain focused on their academic work and adhere strictly to institutional regulations governing legal education and practice, stressing that success in law school requires consistency, resilience, and a strong ethical foundation.
Also speaking at the program, the Dean of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law, Dr. Cllr. Niveda Ricks, described the institution as Liberia’s pride and a cornerstone of legal education in the country. She noted that the law school has, over the decades, produced the vast majority of Liberia’s legal professionals, including judges, prosecutors, and policymakers.
“This institution stands as a symbol of excellence and integrity,” Dean Ricks stated. “Here, there is no room for academic dishonesty. Our goal is to develop competent and honorable lawyers who will contribute meaningfully to society.”
She urged the students to remain disciplined, committed, and intellectually curious, while taking full advantage of the opportunities available to them at the institution. She also reminded them that the legal profession demands strict adherence to ethical standards, noting that integrity must guide both their academic journey and future practice.
Delivering the keynote address, Liberia’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Cllr. Tweah, challenged the students to prepare for the intensity and demands of legal education, describing the law as a “jealous mistress” that requires total commitment and sacrifice.
“The study of law is unlike any academic pursuit you have encountered,” he said. “It requires discipline, critical thinking, and a willingness to set aside personal biases in favor of logic and fairness.”
He encouraged the students to cultivate strong study habits, actively participate in lectures, and form study groups as part of their academic strategy. He further emphasized that success in the legal profession is not determined solely by academic performance, but also by character, professionalism, and a commitment to justice.
“Your reputation begins today,” he warned. “Your integrity, diligence, and conduct will follow you beyond the classroom and into your legal career.”
The Justice Minister also highlighted the broader responsibility of lawyers in society, urging the students to remain mindful of the human element behind every legal matter and to pursue justice with fairness, transparency, and compassion.
The orientation program concluded with a unified message of encouragement from all speakers, officially welcoming the Class of 2026 and inspiring them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of knowledge and service to the nation.
As Liberia continues to strengthen its justice system, institutions like the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law and organizations such as AFELL remain central to developing a new generation of legal professionals committed to upholding the rule of law, protecting human rights, and advancing national development.
