Kenya’s Legal Training Under Scrutiny as Stakeholders Push for Reforms
The Council of Legal Education (CLE) has presented a report to the Attorney General recommending major reforms in the legal education sector with the aim of shaping the future of the legal profession and ensuring that justice system is served by highly qualified, ethical and competent professionals.
The proposals address entry requirements into the Advocates Training Program (ATP), examination processes, and financial sustainability challenges.
Speaking during the presentation, Christine Agimba ,Chairperson of the Kenya Law Reforms, thanked the Attorney General for appointing the Working Committee in August last year.
“We engaged students, law lecturers, professional bodies, and members of the public to gather input on the key concerns affecting legal education,” she said,noting that the report highlights necessary reforms that will bring clarity, fairness and efficiency to the sector.
The report identifies inconsistencies in existing laws governing legal education, including the Kenya School of Law Act, the Legal Education Act and the Advocates Act.
According to Agimba, harmonizing these laws will resolve conflicts over admission criteria to the ATP program and ensure a fair process for all students.
“A clear legal framework will eliminate uncertainties and unnecessary litigation,” she emphasized.
One of the report’s key recommendations is the recognition of academic progression pathways for law students. Many students have pursued law degrees through alternative routes but are currently ineligible for ATP admission.
“We must establish clear guidelines for students who follow different academic pathways,” Agimba noted, adding that other professional sectors, such as engineering and medicine, already recognize alternative progression routes.
Additionally, the committee recommends transitional provisions for an estimated 3,000 to 6,000 students who have completed law degrees but remain locked out of the ATP program due to regulatory gaps.
“We urge the Council of Legal Education to implement interim measures to allow these students to proceed with their legal training,” Agimba said.
The report also highlights the need for reciprocity in admitting advocates from East African Community (EAC) partner states. The committee proposes amending Sections 12 and 13 of the Advocates Act to facilitate mutual recognition of qualifications.
“Kenyan lawyers should be able to practice in other EAC countries just as their lawyers are admitted here,” she stated.
On examination reforms, the committee acknowledges concerns raised by students and lecturers regarding transparency and fairness. Agimba commended CLE for taking steps to improve the administration of ATP exams.
“We recommend greater collaboration between the Kenya School of Law and the Council of Legal Education to enhance exam integrity and align assessment methods with the curriculum,” she said.
Financial sustainability remains a major challenge for legal education institutions, particularly the Kenya School of Law and CLE.
Making her remarks,the Attorney General, Dorcas Oduor reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing funding shortfalls.
“Legal education is vital for our justice system. We must explore innovative funding models to avoid burdening students with high tuition fees,” she said.
The Attorney General assured all parties that the recommendations would be reviewed for implementation.
“We must act swiftly to modernize legal education and prepare our lawyers for the evolving demands of the profession,” she stated.
Prof. Collins Odote, Chairperson of CLE, echoed these sentiments, citing recent reforms in exam processing. “For the first time, we released ATP exam results within three weeks instead of two months,” he revealed. “We also introduced a tabulation system to show students how their marks were awarded, enhancing transparency.”
Dr.Henry Mutai, CEO of the Kenya School of Law (KSL), reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to implementing the proposed reforms.
“We are committed to producing well-trained legal professionals while ensuring accessibility and affordability of legal education,” he said.
Mutai however noted that financial constraints remains a challenge, with many students struggling to afford tuition fees.
As the legal education sector embarks on reforms, stakeholders emphasize the need for structured engagement to maintain quality and uphold international standards.
By Sharon Atieno
