The SAMA organization is set to host an insightful roundtable titled ‘Building the Next Generation of Dispute Resolution Professionals’ on August 20 in Bengaluru. This event aims to unite deans, ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) professors, and faculty members from law schools within Karnataka and neighboring regions. The discussion will focus on the evolving landscape of dispute resolution careers and exploring collaborative avenues between academia and the industry.
Key Discussion Points
The roundtable will feature a keynote address from Shahzar Hussain, a Senior Consultant at Vahura, a prominent legal recruitment and talent advisory firm in India. Hussain will delve into the current trends in legal hiring and share insights on how law students can prepare for careers in emerging areas such as mediation, Online Dispute Resolution (ODR), and legal technology.
Some of the critical topics to be discussed during this event include the skills today’s legal industry needs from new graduates, including practice-readiness, ADR, and legal-tech competencies. Additionally, the event will explore the expanding opportunities in sectors like litigation, judiciary, policy, legal tech, mediation, ODR, and case management.
Another focal point will be how law schools can collaborate with SAMA through initiatives like internships, workshops, research projects, faculty development programs, and ADR clinics. Participants will also get a preview of the Indian Mediation Week 2026, marking its 10th edition, along with insights into the Student Ambassador Programme. Furthermore, a current SAMA Case Manager will share their journey and experiences, highlighting how the role has influenced their career in law.
Networking Opportunities
The event will provide attendees with the opportunity to engage in open discussions and network across institutions during a dinner session following the roundtable.
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Keynote Speaker: Shahzar Hussain
Shahzar Hussain, who is part of the Navigator vertical at Vahura, collaborates with law schools nationwide to implement customized career guidance and mentorship programs for students. His role involves drafting and reviewing documents for multiple projects and recruiting for mid to senior-level positions within law firms and venture capital funds.
Before joining Vahura, Hussain gathered experience at various law firms and the chambers of a senior advocate, advising on General Corporate, Labour & Employment, Real Estate, and Dispute Resolution matters. Hussain is an alumnus of ILS Law College and holds a master’s degree from Jindal Global Law School.
Who Should Attend?
The roundtable is tailored for professors and faculty engaged in teaching ADR, deans, placement officers from law schools, and academic administrators interested in developing career and internship pathways for law students in dispute resolution.
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The event is scheduled for August 20, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM, at SAMA, located on the 1st Floor of Bridge Landmark, Indiranagar, Bengaluru. A detailed agenda will be shared with registered participants, and there is no registration fee for attending the event, which includes dinner. Interested individuals can register for the event through the provided link.
