Ghana’s legal fraternity welcomed a new wave of professionals on Friday, October 10, as 824 newly qualified lawyers were officially called to the Ghana Bar in a ceremony marked by pride, inclusivity, and excellence.
The event, held at the Accra International Conference Centre, showcased not only academic achievement but also the changing face of Ghana’s legal landscape.
Among the new entrants were several prominent media personalities and journalists, reflecting a growing connection between law, journalism, and public service.
Notable inductees included Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson of Graphic Online, Serwaa Amihere of the EIB Network, Joseph Ackah-Blay of Media General, Sixtus Don-Ullo of 3News, and Yvonne Asare-Offei of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation.
Their inclusion, observers say, underscores the crucial role of legal literacy in shaping ethical journalism and strengthening democratic accountability.
The ceremony was presided over by Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, who administered the professional oath and personally handed over the qualifying certificates.
The packed auditorium resonated with applause as families, friends, and mentors gathered to celebrate the new advocates’ milestone achievement.
Among the highlights of the event was the recognition of six persons with disabilities, whose success stories inspired many in attendance.
Their journey into the profession, officials said, reflected the growing commitment to accessibility and equal opportunity within Ghana’s legal education system.
Another remarkable story came from Paul Chen, a Chinese-born entrepreneur based in Kumasi, whose call to the Bar added to the ceremony’s spirit of diversity. Born in Taiwan and raised in Ghana from childhood, Paul shared how his Ghanaian upbringing inspired his pursuit of legal education.
“I came to Ghana when I was young and now run a business in Kumasi,” he said. “I believe legal knowledge is a powerful tool—it helps in business, in understanding society, and in making fair decisions.”
Distinguished guests included Supreme Court Justice Avril Lovelace-Johnson, Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine, Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, Director of Legal Education Prof. Raymond Atuguba, and Ghana Bar Association President Efua Ghartey.