The IIE Varsity College Waterfall celebrates ethical leadership in the legal profession
The Code of Ethics Ceremony reaffirms the institution’s mission to develop not just skilled lawyers, but principled and responsible members of society.
More than 100 students, guests, and esteemed alumni attended the recent annual Code of Ethics Ceremony hosted by the IIE Varsity College Waterfall’s Faculty of Law.
The ceremony was held on campus to emphasise Varsity College Waterfall’s commitment to nurturing future legal professionals who are not only knowledgeable but also dedicated to upholding the highest moral and ethical standards in their practice.
This event served as a crucial platform to highlight the importance of ethical conduct within the legal profession. Soretha Venter, the IIE Varsity College law clinic director from the inland region, administered the ethical pledge to the students.
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This pledge represents a meaningful commitment made by first-year Bachelor of Laws students and first-year articulation students transitioning from the Bachelor of Commerce in Law degree to the Bachelor of Laws.
Students were reminded of the foundational values of the legal profession, which include honesty, fairness, respect for the rule of law, commitment to justice, and the obligation to act as fit and proper individuals.
Keynote speakers included Judge Brad Wanless, who spoke about The Role of Ethics in the Legal Profession and the Importance of Upholding the Rules Governing It. Wanless’ insights underscored the profound responsibilities that legal practitioners have in maintaining the integrity of the legal system.
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Vele Oarabile Lekalakala, a fourth-year Bachelor of Laws student and a VC Voice Law representative, noted that the ceremony was an important first step for any law student committing to upholding the standards of the legal profession.
“The speakers made essential points about the role ethics play in this profession. While being ethical means following the correct procedures, it goes deeper than just morals. One of our speakers mentioned that being ethical is like a muscle that requires training and practice,” Lekalakala said.
“I believe that integrity, an essential aspect of being ethical, is not something we can simply put on like a graduation robe. It is a habit established through our daily decision-making. Though it’s not easy, it is achievable. Remember, you are not alone on your law journey. This profession thrives on collaboration, mutual support, and shared responsibility.”
Her advice to first-year students is to lean on those around them, especially those who have already walked this path. “Take every opportunity that presents itself and deliberately train that ethical muscle. Like all journeys, it may not always be easy, but with the right destination in mind, it becomes achievable.”
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