By Arret Jatta
Law Student Association of The Gambia recently marked “Law Day’’ which was preceded by “Law Week” of community and stakeholder engagement.
The theme for this year’s commemoration was
Multisectoral Advocacy on the Effect of Irregular Migration, Human Rights Violations, and Cross-Border Disputes.
The event took place at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara Conference Centre on the 10th of February.
The activities throughout the week, included a sponsored walk, community outreach initiatives, cultural day festivities, and culminating in the grandeur of the Law Day.
Hon. Justice Kumba Sillah, giving her statement highlighted that Hopes for travelling abroad to make greener pasture for better living is growing on daily basis in the heart and mind of young people.
“The African region has recently experienced massive flow of her energetic young people to Europe in the name of making wealth and virtually has caused so much negative effect on the society we live. Young people are the force behind any positive societal development and if they take risk which has the potential to claim their lives then that’s threatening,” she said.
She added: “In each of our societies now, there is at least one life lost in the attempt to reach the western world and these young people are mostly the bread winners of their families and the society rely on them for community lead initiatives and its related activities.”
Prof Olaolu S. Opadere, Deen of UTG Law School, states that as law practitioners they are the pioneers of implementing the laws they should therefore, be the lead advocates in combating irregular migration.
“Lawyers and law students should take the lead in the fight against irregular migration, raising awareness to communities in realizing their rights and know how to not fall victims of irregular migration and human trafficking.”
Other speakers at the event included: Mr.Sisawo Cham, President of the association and Fatou Geo Barry, The UNODC PROMIS Project Coordinator.