Kampala International University (KIU) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Legal Aid Service Providers’ Network (LASPNET), paving the way for law students to gain hands-on legal experience while advancing access to justice in Uganda.

The partnership, sealed on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at KIU’s main campus in Kampala, will offer students career development and internship opportunities through LASPNET’s legal aid call center. The collaboration aims to bridge the gap between classroom theory and practical application, producing graduates equipped to tackle real-world legal challenges.

Prof. Regina Idu Ejemot-Nwadiaro, KIU Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovations, Consultancy and Extensions (RICE), signed the agreement on behalf of the university. Dr. Sylvia Namubiru Mukasa, Chief Executive Officer of LASPNET, signed for the organization.

“This partnership is a testament to KIU’s commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically sound but also practically equipped to make a difference in society,” Prof. Ejemot said.

Dr. Mukasa echoed the importance of the initiative, emphasizing LASPNET’s mission. “LASPNET’s vision is a free and just society. We believe that this partnership with KIU will help us achieve this goal by providing students with practical experience in the field of law,” she said.

The MoU also strengthens KIU’s focus on Clinical Legal Education (CLE), a growing area in legal academia that emphasizes experiential learning. Students will support LASPNET’s work in legal aid, human rights, and social justice, particularly in under-served communities.

Dr. Mundu Mustafa, KIU Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Finance and Administration, described the partnership as “a significant milestone in our efforts to equip our students with practical experience in socio-economic justice, human rights justice, and climate justice.”

Faculty members and university officials welcomed the initiative as a boost to both student development and national legal capacity. Dr. Esther Kisubi, Dean of the School of Law, said, “This partnership is a significant step toward achieving our goal of producing practice-ready graduates.”

Dr. Olawunmi Obisesan, Head of the Department of Clinical Legal Education, noted, “This will allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings and make a positive impact in society.”

Rashid Kwizera, a legal officer at KIU, called the collaboration “a win-win,” adding, “Our students will gain valuable experience, and LASPNET will benefit from the fresh perspectives and ideas that they bring.”

Christine Ainebyoona, KIU Deputy University Secretary and Campus Administrator, added, “This will undoubtedly enhance our students’ employability prospects and prepare them for the workforce.”

The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from both institutions, including Assoc. Prof. Adedoyin Olusegun Akinsulure, Badru Walusansa (Director of Programs, LASPNET), Duncan Keitirima (Legal Aid Call Center Coordinator), and Peter Mutebi (Networking and Partnerships Officer).

With this partnership, KIU and LASPNET aim to nurture a new generation of socially conscious legal professionals while expanding legal support to vulnerable populations.