National Legal Academy to be Established at IIULER Goa
The Bar Council of India (BCI) has unveiled plans to develop a National Legal Academy (NLA) at the India International University of Legal Education and Research (IIULER) in Goa. This initiative aims to provide structured, compulsory training for lawyers across the country, enhancing their skills and knowledge in line with modern legal practices.
Announcement at IIULER’s Orientation Event
BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra made this significant announcement on August 9 during the Deeksharambh event, marking the orientation for IIULER’s Batch of 2026. The event was graced by IIULER Chancellor and Supreme Court Justice PS Narasimha, who had previously ordered the BCI to establish the Academy in a Supreme Court directive issued last month.
Supreme Court’s Directive and Vision
The Supreme Court’s directive, authored by Justice Narasimha, emphasized the Academy’s role in delivering lifelong post-enrolment legal education, reinforcing ethical standards, and equipping lawyers to navigate technological advancements. According to Mishra, the decision to house the Academy at IIULER aligns with this judgment, envisioning a center of excellence in legal education and research.
Mandatory Training for Lawyers
Chairman Mishra highlighted the Academy’s responsibility to offer compulsory training courses spanning 10 days to two weeks for all practicing lawyers. This initiative aims to bring together young legal professionals at IIULER’s Goa campus, providing them the chance to learn from esteemed judges, trainers, professors, and senior advocates. Students of IIULER will also benefit from this exposure, enhancing their academic and professional journey.
Development Plans for IIULER Campus
A high-level meeting on August 8, attended by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Advocate General Devidas Pangam, and Justice Narasimha, solidified plans to complete the construction of IIULER’s main campus in Dharbandora, which spans over 50 acres, within two years. This development aligns with the Chancellor’s vision to position IIULER as a premier legal education institution.
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Insights from Justice Narasimha
In his address, Justice Narasimha advised students on the importance of personality development and a multidisciplinary approach to legal studies, anticipating a future where academic boundaries are increasingly blurred. He encouraged students to remain vigilant with the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI), emphasizing the need to preserve their cognitive abilities amidst technological integration.
Other notable speakers at the event included Goa Advocate General Devidas Pangam and Professor Deveral Capps, Dean of Leeds Law School, UK. Dr. R Venkata Rao, Vice Chancellor of IIULER, delivered the welcome address, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting chapter in India’s legal education landscape.
