“You are stepping into a role as custodians of justice,” she said, urging the students to reflect not only on what lawyers do, but on who they ought to be. Expounding on the theme, HW Lamunu noted that while the legal profession is often seen as adversarial, true lawyering goes beyond winning and losing cases. “Beneath every case file is something deeply human, conflict, pain, fear, and sometimes injustice.

That is where the deeper calling of the lawyer begins,” she said. Throughout her address, she emphasized humanity and humility as central values of the legal profession, noting that lawyers must always see the human being behind every file.

Highlighting Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), she described mediation as a long-standing and important avenue for resolving disputes, allowing parties to be heard and to reach meaningful, lasting resolutions. “If you are engaged in mediation, you are playing the role of a healer,” she said. “It is not just about resolving a dispute, but about restoring relationships, dignity, and trust.” She added that as students enter the profession, they will be entrusted with people at their most vulnerable moments. “Your role will not only be to argue, but to listen; not only to advocate, but to understand; not only to win, but to do what is right,” she said.

HW Lamunu also encouraged the students to reflect on their journey and celebrate their achievement, noting that their presence at the dinner was evidence of years of discipline, sacrifice, and resilience. She cautioned them against prioritizing profit over principle and urged them to uphold the moral authority of the legal profession.

“Healing requires humanity, humility, courage, and hope,” she said. The Chief Guest, the Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, commended the University for organizing an event that bridges legal education and practice, noting that the theme was timely and globally relevant. “The theme is on point. It reflects the conversation we are having today not only in Uganda, but globally,” she said. “I want to thank my sister, the Acting Chief Registrar, that was a powerful keynote address.” Lady Justice Abodo said the dinner was more than a social event, describing it as a platform for meaningful engagement. “This is not only a dinner; it is a space where you can pick each other’s minds, exchange ideas, and build professional networks,” she said.

She reminded the students that the study and practice of law are demanding but rewarding, placing lawyers at the centre of justice delivery in society. “Law is a demanding profession,” she said. “It is also double-edged—it can be used to heal, or it can be used to harm.” She urged the students to remain conscious of the power they carry as legal professionals.

“The law is a double-edged tool. In the wrong hands, it can divide and destroy. In the right hands, it can heal, protect, and transform lives,” she said. The Principal Judge also emphasized that legal practice is evolving and called on the students to remain adaptable. “The law you study in university is not exactly the same law you will practice,” she said. “You must be adaptable.”

She further highlighted technological transformation within the Judiciary. “Technology is coming on board. As you heard the Chief Justice say, we are moving towards a paperless Judiciary in June,” she added. Lady Justice Abodo urged the students to uphold integrity, excellence, and service, noting that reputation remains a lawyer’s strongest asset. She also encouraged them to embrace continuous learning and service to society.

She applauded the organizers for recognizing excellence through awards, noting that such initiatives inspire professionalism and commitment among students. Speaking on behalf of the Uganda Law Society, Mr Arthur Isiko commended the university for its timeliness and its role in bridging gaps within the legal profession. He emphasized that lawyers have a responsibility to advise both government and the public on matters relating to the rule of law.

He also stressed the importance of character, urging students to uphold integrity and professionalism, and to maintain respectful relationships within the legal fraternity, particularly between the Bench and the Bar. Paying tribute to the Principal Judge, he said, “The Principal Judge has truly been a mother to the profession. Personally, I believe she is the right person, because she has consistently guided, supported, and strengthened the relationship between the Bench and the Bar.”

The Vice Chancellor of UPU, Prof. Pelucy Kabahuma Ntambirweki, thanked the guests for attending, noting that their presence was highly valued by the university. “It is important for Uganda Pentecostal University to have you here tonight,” she said. “You are about to become alumni of this university. You will be ambassadors and will share your success stories wherever you go. UPU will be part of your DNA.” She thanked the Principal Judge and the Acting Chief Registrar for their words of wisdom and urged students to continue giving back to society. “Serve above self, beyond the courtroom. Think about that man, woman, or child who needs your support,” she said.

The Chairperson of the Organising Committee, Mr Brian Kanyesigye, thanked attendees for their support and solidarity, expressing confidence that the bonds formed during their years of study would endure into professional life.

Student leader Mr Jackson Mwesigye expressed gratitude to God and the university community, noting that the journey had not been easy but had been worthwhile and transformative.

A lecturer, Mr Jacob Rubeizi, commended the Judiciary for the Judicature (Mediation) Rules, noting that they have strengthened Alternative Dispute Resolution by recognizing it as a viable practice area within the legal profession.

In a vote of thanks, Mr Fredrick Byatukoreire appreciated the keynote address, saying it strongly resonated with what the students had studied in class, particularly on ADR. He highlighted discipline, civility, respect, professionalism, and community as key takeaways from the evening.

Ms Prim Ampa described the Principal Judge’s message as deeply motherly.

The event was attended by members of the Judiciary, including HW Edger Nyakairu, Personal Assistant to the Principal Judge, and HW Fidelis Otwao, Personal Assistant to the Acting Chief Registrar.

Also present were Judiciary staff who are finalists at the university, including Mr Geofrey, Assistant Records Officer attached to the Chief Registrar’s Chambers, Ms Hellen Musumba, Assistant Records Officer attached to the High Court Registry, and Ms Esther Nampijja of the Supreme Court, among others.

The dinner concluded with a call for students to embrace their future roles not only as advocates, but as healers committed to resolving conflict and promoting justice in society.

The evening also featured a cake-cutting ceremony, followed by the presentation of awards to the Principal Judge in recognition of her distinguished presence, exemplary leadership, and unwavering commitment to the administration of justice, and to the Acting Chief Registrar in recognition of her exceptional administrative leadership and continued support to the effective delivery of justice.