The Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD) officially welcomed its 17^th cohort of students enrolled in the weekend program, highlighting the vital role of delivering justice with integrity and compassion. The official opening ceremony took place on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at the University of Rwanda’s Gikondo Campus, a facility used by ILPD students based in Kigali. This new cohort consists of 74 students embarking on a one-year program through weekend-based classes.

Speaking to students, Dr. Yves Sezirahiga, ILPD's Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Research, emphasized the institution's dedication to providing practical training designed to prepare students for diverse legal careers. 

“We are committed to teaching all practical aspects of delivering justice while fostering integrity and respect for the law. We remind our students that justice must always be delivered with humanity. When we punish, we are not punishing the crime itself but the individual, ensuring that justice serves as an effective tool for accountability and rehabilitation,” he said.

Dr. Sezirahiga also encouraged the students to prioritize the needs of the people they serve, emphasizing that legal professionals must balance their technical expertise with compassion and fairness.

ILPD’s weekend program is designed to accommodate working professionals, providing flexible learning options while maintaining the high standards for which the institution is known.