The (ILPD) has called on its graduates to uphold integrity and professional values as they enter the legal field, emphasizing their role in delivering justice to citizens.
The message was delivered on Friday during the 14th graduation ceremony held at the institute’s campus in , where 436 students were awarded certificates after completing specialized training in legal practice, child justice, and tax law.
Speaking at the event, ILPD Rector, Dr Aimé Muyoboke Karimunda, reminded graduates that their responsibility goes beyond applying the law to ensuring fairness and ethical conduct.
“The idea of justice is simple: giving each person what they deserve,” he said. “As legal professionals, you must ensure that your decisions are not only lawful but also fair, and that they reflect integrity and responsibility.”
Graduates who spoke during the ceremony expressed readiness to apply their knowledge in serving clients and promoting access to justice.
“We are prepared to help our clients understand the laws that protect them and ensure they receive justice in accordance with the law,” one of the graduates said.
Officials highlighted the growing contribution of ILPD to Rwanda’s justice sector. Established in 2008, the institute has now trained more than 7,000 legal professionals who are working across various sectors of the country.
The Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, noted that the increase in trained professionals reflects the country’s progress in rebuilding its justice system.
He encouraged the graduates to maintain the dignity of their profession and contribute to national development through their work.
“Legal services are essential to our economy and governance. You must demonstrate professionalism and help strengthen trust in the justice system,” he said.
The graduation ceremony also served as a reminder of the importance of alternative dispute resolution methods. Former Chief Justice urged graduates to promote mediation and reconciliation.
“Mediation helps resolve conflicts peacefully and rebuild relationships. It is an important tool that legal professionals should embrace,” he said.
With this latest cohort, ILPD continues to play a key role in strengthening Rwanda’s legal system by producing skilled and ethical professionals committed to justice.