KIU Law Public Lecture Highlights Family, Values and Justice

By Hattie Wright

KIU, Main Campus - Through the School of Law and the Department of Clinical Legal Education, in partnership with Maraga & Co. Advocates, Kampala International University (KIU) Main Campus held an inspiring mentorship lecture on Friday, September 4th, 2026, under the theme “Strong Families, Strong Nations: The Role of Family Law in Building a Just Society.”

The mentorship lecture aimed to deepen students’ understanding of the role of family law in shaping society, to inspire them to uphold justice beginning within families, and to prepare them as practice‑ready lawyers who combine professional competence with compassion and integrity.

The lecture also sought to bridge academic learning with real‑world practice, highlight contemporary challenges in family law, and encourage future practitioners to safeguard values that strengthen both families and nations.

Prof. Regina Ejemot Nwadiaro, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, Consultancy and Extensions (RICE), welcomed the Guest of Honor Hon. Lady Justice Dr. Christine A. Echookit, Judge of the High Court (Land Division), with warm applause and pride in KIU’s legacy. 

She reminded new students that they are joining a community renowned for excellence beyond the university gates. “KIU Alumni have made it a habit to excel in all aspects outside the university,” she said, emphasizing that their journey leads to limitless opportunity.

Dr. Jacob Eneji Ashibi, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, reaffirmed KIU’s commitment to bridging academia and the professional world. “We bring in industry experts to interact with you, and you ought to apply the knowledge you have learnt to benefit the community,” he urged.

Keynote Address

Hon. Lady Justice Dr. Christine A. Echookit, Judge of the High Court (Land Division), emphasized that justice begins in the family.

She highlighted the role of family law in nurturing values, protecting children’s rights, and ensuring dignity in divorce and guardianship matters. “Families strengthen collaboration and linkages; to have a strong family is a good recipe for a strong nation,” she noted.

Hon. Lady Justice Dr. Echookit encouraged students to balance competence with compassion: “Learn the law and listen to the stories of clients. Remember the vulnerable and protect your integrity.” She also stressed the importance of wills and wealth management to preserve family legacies and reduce disputes.

Faculty and Practitioner Insights

Dr. Esther Kisubi, Dean of the School of Law, energized the audience by reaffirming KIU’s mission to produce practice‑ready graduates who meaningfully contribute to society.

Counsel Tony Kiire Galandi, Managing Partner at Diamond Advocates, reflected on the historical framing of family law, urging sensitivity in custody matters and recognition of contemporary realities such as cohabitation.

Counsel Paul Mukiibi, Founding Partner of Mukiibi & Kyeyune Advocates, addressed persistent biases in property ownership and inheritance. He urged documentation of cohabitant transactions and equitable treatment of female heirs.

Counsel Joy E. Mbabazi, Legal and Media practitioner, emphasized that law must be humanized: “Law practitioners should not just make money but act in a humane way while judging these cases.”

Student Engagement

Samuel Nzingo, President of the KIU Law Society, underscored the value of the university’s public lectures, noting that they play a crucial role in helping law students grasp the practical side of legal education. 

He emphasized that these engagements expose learners to real‑world perspectives, strengthen their professional readiness, and deepen their understanding of how legal principles operate beyond the classroom.

The event also featured the handover ceremony to the incoming cabinet of Maraga & Co. Advocates Students’ Law Firm – KIU, symbolizing continuity in mentorship and student leadership.

Conclusion

The public lecture reaffirmed KIU’s dedication to practical legal education and societal transformation. By engaging distinguished judges, advocates, and alumni, the School of Law provided students with invaluable insights into the intersection of family, law, and justice.